March 2016 VT Issue 64

Vientiane Times
wednesDAY march 16, 2016
Inside
The First National English Language Newspaper
ISSUE 64
IMF chief praises Laos,

warns of challenges ahead
Somsack Pongkhao
Laos mourns death of

Cuban Ambassador
[Page 3]
Indonesia blows up
illegal toothfish ship
sought by Interpol
[Page 6]
Mitsubishi Electric
eyes sales growth
[Page 9]
Central Market: Kuala

Lumpurs souvenir
heaven
[Page 16]
International Monetary Fund

(IMF) chief Christine Lagarde
has lauded Laos economic
achievements while cautioning
that more work is needed to
consolidate stability as the
nation transitions from lowincome country status.
IMF Managing Director
Christine Lagarde paid her
first visit to Laos this week
aiming to enhance cooperation
between the IMF and Laos in
relation to macro-economic
management.
Ms Lagarde is believed to
be the first IMF chief to visit
Laos since the country joined
the International Monetary
Fund in 1961.
She arrived in Vientiane
on Monday and met top level
leaders on Tuesday to discuss
cooperation between the IMF
and Laos.
Talks were held with
President Choummaly
Sayasone, Deputy Prime
Minister Thongloun Sisoulith,
and other high-ranking
officials.
Ms Lagarde issued the
following statement at the
conclusion of her visit to Laos,
saying the IMF complimented
government officials on
their important economic
achievements including robust
growth based on substantial
public investment and deeper
economic integration with
neighbouring countries.
This economic expansion

has brought a solid decline
in poverty and important
improvements in social
welfare. I also pointed to recent
achievements in bringing down sustainable growth going

the fiscal deficit in the last forward, she said.
three years, which has helped
Ms Lagarde said the
safeguard macroeconomic economic prospects for Laos
Continued page 2
stability and set the stage for
affairs for Lao expatriates, Mr

Bopunthavy Boutsaseng, said
yesterday.
He explained that the
committee was faced with the
difficulty of preparing voting
facilities in every country,
where the number of Lao
nationals was small and they
lived in scattered locations,
while the preparation costs
could be high.
We will discuss the matter
again tomorrow [today], he
said.
Reports show that most
Lao nationals in foreign
countries who are eligible to
vote, including students, live in
China, Thailand and Vietnam
the only three countries
where it has been confirmed

that polling stations will be
available.
It is reported that there
are more than 16,000 Lao
nationals in China, Thailand
and Vietnam who are eligible
to vote.
In China, voters can go to
the Lao Embassy in Beijing
and to consulates in Kunming,
Guangzhou, Nanning,
Shanghai and Hong Kong.
In Thailand, voters can
go to the Lao Embassy in
Bangkok and the consulate in
Khon Kaen. In Vietnam, voting
stations will be set up at the
Lao Embassy in Hanoi and the
consulates in Danang and Ho
Chi Minh City.
Polling stations set up for Lao expatriates
Souksakhone Vaenkeo
Vientiane Fashion
Week collections wow
audiences
[Page 19]
IMF chief Christine Lagarde calls on President Choummaly Sayasone in Vientiane yesterday.
Preparations are in place to

enable Lao nationals in foreign
countries to cast their vote for
new members of parliament,
with the National Assembly
election scheduled to take
place this weekend.
Lao citizens can vote on
Saturday March 19 at Lao
embassies and consulates in
China, Thailand and Vietnam,
which is one day earlier than
in Laos where the election
will take place on Sunday.
However, it is still unclear
if Lao expats in other countries
can vote at embassies or
consulates, a member of the
committee in charge of election
There are also at least

another 1,000 Lao nationals in
other countries who are eligible
to vote.
Mr Bopunthavy said voting
would take place a day earlier
in China, Thailand and
Vietnam so officials could
send the results back to the
National Election Committee
quickly.
The votes received at Lao
embassies and consulates are
expected to be sent back by
Sunday (March 20) or not later
than Monday (March 21).
He added that consideration
will be given to reimbursing
the travel costs and living
expenses of people who have
to travel a long way to vote.
4500 kip
U Htin Kyaw
of ruling
party elected
as president
of Myanmar
NAY PYI TAW (Xinhua) -- U
Htin Kyaw from Myanmars
ruling National League for
Democracy (NLD), led by
Aung San Suu Kyi, won the
presidential election Tuesday
through a secret ballot, thus
becoming the countrys new
president for the next five-year
term.
U Htin Kyaw won against
the two other presidential
candidates -- U Myint Swe
nominated by the military and
U Henry Van Htee Yu by the
NLD, by a vote of 360:213:79
out of 652 MPs who cast their
votes in the Union Parliament,
chaired by Speaker U Mann
Win Khaing Than.
U Htin Kyaw becomes the
second president of Myanmar
after the military returned
power to the civilian in 2011.
U Htin Kyaw, a nonparliament representative, is
also a non-military civilian
president.
As per the voting result, U
Myint Swe becomes the first
vice president, while U Henry
Van Htee Yu becomes the
second vice president.
The elected president
and two vice presidents are
expected to be sworn in at the
parliament on March 30, while
the handover of duties of head
of state is expected to take
place at the Presidential Palace
on the next day.
The Myanmar parliament
set three groups representing
the two Houses and military
MPs to nominate one candidate
each for the presidential race
and through voting, the one that
wins the most number of votes
takes the presidency while the
remaining two become vice
presidents.
The Union Parliament
comprising two Houses is
shared by NLD with 390 MPs
or 59.36 percent, USDP with
41 or 6.24 percent, other parties
and individuals with 60 or
9.132 percent and military
representatives with 166 or
25.26 percent.
2 Home news
Vientiane Times
Wednesday March 16, 2016
Savannakhet police drug bust snares

40,000 amphetamine pills
Times Reporters
Savannakhet provincial police

last week confiscated over
40,000 amphetamine pills and
apprehended three men after
stopping a pick-up along Road
No. 9 in Nabor village, Xepon
district.
The provinces Department
of Drug Prevention and Control
said Savannakhet police had
been targeting the group for
about two months.
After receiving a tip
off that the men would be
transporting drugs along this
road, police sent a team to
investigate.
While making enquiries
in Nabor village, police
stopped three men travelling
in a pick-up. On searching
the vehicle they discovered

and four packs of heroin and
apprehended the men for
questioning.
The men were named
as Mr Khanphet, 34, of
Lattanalangsy-Neua village,
Kaysone Phomvihane district,
Savannakhet province, Mr
Sipaseud, 23, of Thongkang
village, Sisattanak district,
and Mr Keo, 37, of Phontong
village, Chanthabouly district,
Vientiane.
Police are continuing their
investigations and trying to
identify other people involved
in the drug ring before sending
the suspects to court.
This latest bust follows
another incident at the end of
last year, when Savannakhet
police arrested three drug
t r a ff i c k e r s t r a n s p o r t i n g

and 80 grams of crystal
methamphetamine.
According to a Savannakhet
police officer, as the province
shares a border with two other
countries it is easy for people
to transit the region and cross
borders.
This makes the province
attractive to criminals looking
to smuggle drugs.
Savannakhet police are
continuing to wage war against
drugs to protect the public,
while campaigning about the
dangers of drugs in at-risk
areas.
The current anti-drug
project began in 2009. Since
then law enforcement officers
have confiscated 21 vehicles,
10 million baht and thousands
of amphetamine pills.
Mr Bounkhuang Souvannaphanh (right) addresses the meeting.
Laos closes in on poverty reduction target

Times Reporters
Laos aims to further mobilise

all of its untapped potential
and step up cooperation with
all stakeholders, backed by
support from friendly countries,
to achieve the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs).
To achieve these goals,
Laos is implementing the
eighth Five-Year National
Socio-Economic Development
Plan and striving to fulfil the
Sustainable Development
Goals on the way to graduating
from least developed country
status by 2020.
With regard to poverty
reduction, the government
has focused on infrastructure
development, access to public
health services in rural areas,
food security, commercial
production, services, education,
and sanitary expansion.
These were the issues tabled
for discussion by national
committees at the Social
and Environment Safeguard
Consultation Workshop for
Poverty Reduction Fund III,
held in Vientiane on Monday.
The meeting demonstrated
The Dream Childrens Playground Garden at Dongsavath Primary
Laos strong commitment
School in Sisattanak district.
to promoting awareness of
35 children and young people Knowledge is the first step the significance of poverty
in very difficult circumstances towards this goal, to help poor
to cover educational materials children and young people to
and term fees. Their families solve their problems and avoid
are given emergency medical drug abuse by providing after
remained favourable. However,
assistance and counselling. A school activities.
programme of regular home
We run childrens to safeguard macroeconomic
visits provides social support d e v e l o p m e n t c e n t r e s a t stability during the transition
and information for parents.
four primary schools in the out of low-income country
Speaking at the handover Vientiane area where children status in the medium-term,
of the Dream Childrens can gain life-skills, find advice, it would be important to
P l a y g r o u n d G a r d e n a t inform contact persons, or get strengthen the economys
resilience to external shocks
Dongsavath Primary School any further assistance they
and put in place conditions for
recently, DCYDA Head Mr need, he said.
sustainable growth.
Phonexay Inthaleuxay said
According to the DCYDA,
These steps include:
the association was founded to the rural areas of Vientiane have c o n t i n u e d i n v e s t m e n t s
help children develop their full suffered a great deal in terms i n e d u c a t i o n a n d s o c i a l
potential and to protect them of social problems including i n f r a s t r u c t u r e t o e n s u r e
from harm.
dropping out of school, drug r i s i n g l i v i n g s t a n d a r d s ;
We provide life-skills abuse and neglected children. implementation of fiscal
t r a i n i n g a n d a n a n n u a l In urban settings, the negative reforms so that a more efficient
summer camp. It is our aim impacts of westernisation public administration can
to give children a feeling of have a greater effect on poorer support public investment
while maintaining the path
security and being cared for. families.
Association lends a helping hand

to Sisattanak children
Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
Children in poor families in

Sisattanak district, Vientiane,
are gradually receiving
improved healthcare, nutrition
and education, thanks to a
programme that is working
with selected primary schools.
Currently, about 20 percent
of children in Sisattanak
district do not attend school
because their families are poor
and they lack public support to
obtain an education.
But their circumstances
have been improving since
the Dongsavath Children
and Youth Development
Association (DCYDA) based
in Dongsavath village was
founded in 2008.
The association is funded by
overseas agencies.
The group works with four
primary schools in Vientiane,
namely Dongsavath Primary
School, Donkoi School, Nahay
School, and Udomphone
School.
A senior member of the
association said the groups
aim is to ensure that poor
children and adolescents have
access to education and after
school activities. They aim to
provide a fun environment to
discourage or avoid drug abuse
and drop outs, and encourage
children and young people
to participate in helping their
families and communities.
She said the association
donated a small scholarship
fund of 30 million kip a year to
Vientiane Times
Established 1994, Volume 22
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Editor-in-Chief:
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Poverty Reduction Fund

is to help improve access
to and utilisation of basic
infrastructure and services
for poor communities, and to
achieve this using inclusive
development processes, with
an emphasis on sustainability.
Since the second phase
of the Fund began in October
2011, more than 450,000
members of rural communities
in provinces such as Huaphan,
Attapeu and Xekong have
benefitted from it.
The Fund has contributed
to a 37 percent increase in the
use of health services, a 76
percent increase in access to
safe water resources, and a 30
percent increase in access to allweather roads in target villages
across the country. These are
remarkable achievements.
The Poverty Reduction
Fund was established by the
Lao government in 2002 with
overseas funding, and is part of
the Government Office.
M o n d a y s m e e t i n g
was attended by the Head
of the planning and foreign
relations office of the
National Committee for Rural
Development and Poverty
Reduction, Mr Chit Thavisay,
and other invited guests.
IMF chief praises... from page 1
Lao Press in Foreign Languages
Supervisor:
Savankhone Razmountry
eradication. The fight against

poverty was the main focus of
the MDGs, and continues to
remain a priority of the SDGs
from 2016-2030.
The poverty rate has
dropped below the 23 percent
figure recorded in 2013, and
more than 122,000 households
and 1,430 villages have been
freed from poverty in the past
five years.
Laos is one of the fourth
newer members of Asean, and
lags behind the six original
member states in terms of
development.
Poverty Reduction Fund
Executive Director Mr
Bounkhuang Souvannaphanh
said the meeting was a significant
platform for promoting mutual
understanding and sharing
experiences and best practices
aimed at strengthening
cooperation in the area of
poverty reduction, to ensure
that the people lived in better
conditions and could enjoy
prosperity.
Although Laos is moving
forward to upper middle
income status in line with green
and sustainable development,
poverty eradication remains
our top priority, he said.
The objective of the
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of fiscal consolidation;
continued efforts to accumulate
international reserves and
develop the financial system;
and better quality and timely
release of statistics.
Ms Lagarde emphasised
the determination of the IMF
to continue to be a close
partner for Laos in its drive for
development to graduate from
low-income country status by
2020.
In recent years we
have sought to deepen our
policy dialogue and capacity
building by re-establishing
our local office in Vientiane
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support focused on
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strengthening macroeconomic
management and ensuring
conditions for sustained
growth, she said.
According to the Bank
of the Lao PDR, cooperation
between Laos and the IMF
has been growing over the
past years.
Despite global uncertainty,
the Lao economy has continued
to grow at 7.5 percent annually,
making it one of the worlds
fastest growing economies.
However, Ms Lagarde
warned that the sluggish global
economy could impact Laos.
For instance, the rebalancing
of the Chinese economy might
create more turbulence.
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Vientiane Times
Home news
UXO sector achieves new

clearance milestone
Times Reporters
Mr Sengphet Houngboungnuang expresses condolences over the death of the Cuban Ambassador to
Laos Mr Jorge Rey Jimenez at the Cuban Embassy in Vientiane.
Laos mourns death of Cuban Ambassador

Times Reporters
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Sengphet Houngboungnuang, representing the Ministry

of Foreign Affairs, yesterday signed a book of condolence at the Cuban Embassy in Vientiane on
the death of Cuban Ambassador to Laos Mr Jorge Rey Jimenez.
Mr Sengphet expressed his condolences and sympathy over the death of Mr Jimenez, who
died in Laos on March 13.
The Deputy Minister shared his sympathy with the Party, government and people of Cuba as
well as the family of Mr Jimenez.
Road No. 9 upgrade taking shape

Times Reporters
Sections of the over

100-kilometre National
Road No. 9 upgrade through
Savannakhet province have
now been sealed with asphalt
with the project scheduled for
completion in 2017.
Wo r k b y K h o u n x a y
Phatthana Company began in
2014 and the project is now
over half finished.
The project cost is estimated
at 319 billion kip with the
Savannakhet provincial budget
supplying 30 percent and 70
percent coming from the
Ministry of Public Works and
Transport.
The project takes in a
44km section from Phalanxay
district to the Xethamuak area
in Phin district and another
56.6km from Laboukang to
Daen Savan village in Xepon
district.
Khounxay Phatthana
Company noted they had
already completed major
earthworks, upgraded the
drainage system and asphalted
numerous road sections in
January.
Road No. 9 links the LaoThai border with the LaoVietnamese border over a
distance of 241.6 km through
Savannakhet province and

has to be upgraded to Asean
standards so it can bear loads
of 11 tonnes per axle.
The roads in Laos will need
to be improved so they fall in
line with common standards
imposed by the regional bloc.
Road No. 9 is heavily
used by vehicles owned by
companies involved in trade,
tourism and various investment
projects.
Over the past five years the
road has been badly damaged
by overloaded trucks. A report
indicated that about 35 percent
of all trucks using this road
were overloaded.
The year 2015 was a year

of significant progress and
innovation for the UXO
sector in Laos, thanks to a
new evidence-based survey
method.
The unexploded ordnance
(UXO) sector, supported by the
United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP), adopted
a new evidence-based UXO
survey approach in 2015.
The sector has seen a
considerable increase in the
number of cluster munitions
cleared per hectare of land;
from fewer than seven UXO per
hectare in 2014 to more than 22
UXO per hectare in 2015.
The new survey approach
entails consultation with
communities to identify all
known UXO in and around
villages, followed by technical
surveys to establish the extent
of each confirmed hazardous
area, which is then entered
into the national database and
prioritised for clearance.
The approach will help
the Lao government to
establish a national baseline
of contamination, which in
turn will enable better planning
for UXO clearance nationally.
Clearing the whole country
of cluster munitions is one
of the obligations of the
international Convention on
Cluster Munitions.
This information was
revealed at the UXO project
Board Meeting 2016, held
yesterday in Vientiane, chaired
by Minister to the Government
Office Mr Bounheuang
Douangphachanh and the
United Nations Resident
Coordinator and UNDP
Resident Representative in
Laos Ms Kaarina Immonen.
Despite much progress in
2015, millions of UXO is still
Mr Bounheuang Douangphachanh (right) and Ms Kaarina Immonen

co-chair the meeting.
thought to litter Laos rural

and remote communities. The
hazards caused by UXO link
to poverty levels, with the
most contaminated districts in
the country often also being
among the poorest, according
to UNDP.
The number of casualties
resulting from UXO accidents
reported by the National
Regulatory Authority for the
UXO/Mine Action Sector
(NRA) in 2015 was 42,
well below the Millennium
Development Goal 9 target of
75 casualties annually.
An evaluation of the
UNDPs support to Mine
Action in Laos in 2015
revealed remaining areas for
support, including a need to
improve task prioritisation
and planning for the sector,
better communicate results
and progress to stakeholders,
and increase the institutional
capacity of the relevant
government bodies, including
in managing new types and
larger quantities of data on
UXO contamination.
At the meeting, the
new Five Year Sector Work
Plan was presented by the
NRA along with a recentlydeveloped plan for completing
a national cluster munitions

survey by 2021.
The meeting also served
as a platform to gauge support
and capture feedback from
UNDPs partners on the next
phase of support to the UXO
sector, as well as from the Lao
government on the prospect of
increased national ownership
of the sector.
We hope that a strong
coordinated sectoral approach
to programme and technical
support will help to address
some of the remaining
challenges in the sector and
allow funding to align better
with changing needs, Ms
Immonen said.
The current UNDP UXO
programme (2013-2016) has
been supported by Australia,
Belgium, Canada, the European
Union, France, Luxembourg,
New Zealand, Northern
Ireland, Norway, the Republic
of Ireland, the Republic of
Korea, Switzerland and the
United Kingdom.
The UNDP is working
with partners to ensure the full
implementation of the NRA
and UXO Laos Annual Work
Plans for 2016, for which
approximately US$2.2 million
still needs to be committed.
Thai dredging vessels told to retreat from

Lao side of the Mekong
Times Reporters
Workers asphalt a section of National Road No. 9 through Savannakhet province.
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The operators of Thai sand

dredgers working in the
Mekong River close to
Khammuan province signed
a document last week stating
they would not continue to
cross the border into Laos.
Deputy Head of the
Khammuan provincial
Administration Office, Mr
Vannavong Vongphachan, told
Vientiane Times on Tuesday
that authorities had reported
that Thai sand dredging vessels
had crossed the Lao border in
the middle of the river.
Local authorities cautioned
the vessels three times, saying
they should cross back into
Thai territory, but they did not
move.
According to the provincial
authorities, Thai dredgers
transgressed into the Lao side
of the river, straying about
320m into Lao waters.
The Thais returned home
after signing a document
stating they would not again

dredge for sand on the Lao
side of the river border, Mr
Vannavong said.
He pointed out that
riverbank erosion was a risk if
large quantities of sand were
removed.
According to the Ministry
of Public Works and Transport,
the Mekong riverbank in Laos
is increasingly being protected
against erosion through the
construction of embankments,
with the work beginning in
2007 and 2008.
Scores of towns located
all along the Mekong are now
protected, just as in Vientiane.
About 50 percent of the
riverbank has been shored up
against erosion.
The government pays
for the construction of
embankments in accordance
with the extent of erosion that
has already occurred.
In towns, riverbanks
are shored up with concrete
embankments, but in
less populated areas rocks

are dumped alongside the
riverbank. The piles of rocks
cause the water to change the
direction of flow so that it
doesnt rush forcefully around
the rivers edge.
Ministry officials are
calculating the area of land
that has been protected from
erosion and say many square
kilometres of land along the
Mekong have been saved.
The ministry estimates
that since 1975 more than
80 square kilometres of land
have gradually fallen into the
river as there was only limited
riverbank protection for much
of this time.
The Mekong River floods
perennially during the rainy
season around July and
August on its way through
Laos, Thailand, Cambodia,
and Vietnam. Erosion often
occurs in the rainy season
when the river flows fast, and
large sections of riverbank can
collapse quite suddenly.
Correction
The article Violence against women a hidden scourge in Laos published on March 11,
page 1, contains an error in the photo caption. It reads Ms Frederika Meijer (right) co-chairs
a meeting with government officials. It should read United Nations Resident Coordinator
and UNDP Representative to Laos Ms Kaarina Immonen (right) co-chairs a meeting with
government officials. The newspaper apologises for any confusion the error may have caused.
4 Home news
Vientiane Times
News in Brief
Xaythany district owes over 75 billion kip in electricity bills
Xaythany district, Vientiane, has chalked up a total of 75 billion kip in

unpaid electricity bills and more than 11,000 customers have now been
temporarily disconnected.
The authorities reported that more than 11,000 customers were in arrears
to the tune of 16 million kip and had now had their power cut. Customers
are required to pay their bills every month and within seven days of
receiving a bill.
But the main offenders in Xaythany are irrigation and agriculture
projects that owe 37 million kip and government departments that owe
24 billion kip, according to the Social-Economic newspaper.
Electricity supplied to the district is often insufficient because of
population growth but the authorities plan to upgrade the grid and hope
to be able to supply enough electricity in 2016, while continuing to
collect arrears from customers.
China funds construction of primary school

NTPC staff, teachers and students attend the lecture at the Lao-German Technical College in Vientiane.
Technical students learn about hydropower

Times Reporters
The Nam Theun 2 Power Company

(NTPC) on Monday delivered an
introduction to hydropower for about
200 students at the Lao-German
Technical College in Vientiane.
NTPC and the college arranged
the talk for students at the vocational
training school to raise awareness
about the hydropower context in
Laos and enhance capacity building
in this sector.
The talk was given under
an MoU on human resources
development for the hydropower
market signed last year between
NTPC and the College, aimed at
raising students interest in the
hydro sector and the employment
opportunities it can offer.
This initiative contributes to
NTPCs commitment to expand its

network with vocational schools and
improve the quality of curricula to
meet the energy industrys needs,
as well as strengthening human
resources.
During this Hydropower Day,
students had the opportunity to learn
about the hydropower sector in Laos
and its high potential; a case study
of the Nam Theun 2 project was also
presented by professionals from the
company.
The informative talk was attended
by the colleges Deputy Director Mr
Khamsavai Yormmilavong, Human
Resources and Administration
Director of NTPC Mr David Le
Ny, and representatives of NTPCs
operations and maintenance division.
The power company is currently
providing three scholarships for
students at the college and seven for

Khammuan Technical Vocational
College.
Furthermore, a partnership with
the French Embassy in Laos has
allowed seven students to pursue
higher studies in France in the fields
of engineering, maintenance and IT.
The company has plans to provide
more scholarships for students in
Khammuan province in the near
future.
NTPC was formed by the Lao
government and private shareholders
in the Nam Theun 2 Hydroelectric
Project to build and operate the
project for the first 25 years of its
operation. NTPC is dedicated to
running a world class hydropower
facility and to improving the living
conditions of people in the areas
around the project.
A Chinese company has provided more than 2 billion kip to build a

primary school in Huayon village, Namor district, Oudomxay province,
the Education and Sport newspaper reported.
The two buildings have nine classrooms with full facilities for teachers
and students as well as electricity and water connections.
Elsewhere the government and donors of the Republic of Korea donated
more than 380 million kip to build a student dormitory at Longpiew
Secondary School in Kham district, Xieng Khuang province.
Four people die in road accidents
A truck hit and killed a motorbike rider in Dongkhamxang village,

Xaysettha district, the Lao Phatthana newspaper reported.
The victim was named as Mr Loun, 54, of Xiengda village, Xaysettha
district. The driver of the truck was arrested and will stand trial.
Two other accidents occurred last weekend, firstly when a cement truck
crashed into a motorbike rider and killed her. The victim was named as
Ms Termfan, 23, of Khokpherng village, Sangthong district.
In the second accident a truck hit a motorbike, killing the two teenage
riders. They were named as Mr Xang, 16, of Nano village, Xaysettha
district, and Ms Viet, 15, of Sanghuabor village, Xaythany district.
New ultrasound for Xieng Khuang hospital
The Mother and Child Hospital recently donated an ultrasound machine

to Nonghet hospital in Xieng Khuang province worth about 100 million
kip, according to the Laophatthana newspaper.
Officials said they trained doctors at the hospital in the use of the
machine. The hospital is used by many people, so the ultrasound will be
put to good use. Last week foreign doctors visited the hospital to treat
women and perform some operations.
Vientiane Times
French Ambassador Mme Claudine Ledoux (seated) holds a press conference yesterday to
announce a French gastronomy event on March 21 as part of international Francophonie Month. In
Laos, events will take place in Vientiane and Luang Prabang province to promote French cuisine.
The Dongsavath Children and Youth Development Association in Vientiane hands over the Dream
Childrens Playground Garden to Dongsavath Primary School in Sisattanak district, Vientiane.
The handover was attended by Deputy Director of the Vientiane Education and Sports Department
Mr Southany Xayasane and Head of the Dongsavath Children and Youth Development Association
Mr Phonexay Inthaleuxay (first right).
Photo news
Newly appointed
Deputy Minister
of Posts and
Telecommunications,
Mr Thongsay
Sanexaya (first right),
stands with the
Minister of Posts and
Telecommunications
Mr Hiem
Phommachanh (second
left) and other deputy
ministers at his
appointment ceremony.
Mr Thongsay was
previously the Director
General of Lao
Telecom.
--Photos Phetphoxay
Lao Securities Exchange CEO Mr Vanhkham Voravong (tenth right) and Representative of UN
Global Compact and ANZ Lao CEO Ms Tammy Medard (eleventh left) gather with officials from
line organisations at the Ring the Bell for Gender Equality event, held recently in Vientiane.
Vientiane Times
Region
Two die in Australian light plane crash
while filming for Vietnamese TV show
In brief from Asia

News Network
Election preparations a
top priority: Deputy PM
IN BIN (VNS) -Preparations for upcoming

elections and measures
for social and economic
development are Deputy
Prime Minister Nguyn
Xun Phcs top concerns,
he announced during his visit
to the northern province of
in Bin. Speaking to local
authorities during his two-day
work trip to the province,
which ended yesterday,
Phc asked authorities to
complete the list of applicants
nominated to deputy posts in
the 14th National Assembly
(NA) and to the Peoples
Council as well as prepare
for the second consultative
conference and elections.
Major Thai trafficking

trial opens amid fears
for witnesses
Thailand (The Nation)

-- The trial of 92 suspected
human traffickers, arrested
after the discovery of shallow
graves of migrants in the
jungle in Thailand, began in
Bangkok Tuesday and the
attorney generals office said
it would be over within a year
amid fears about the safety of
witnesses.
Traffickers abandoned
boatloads of migrants at sea
last year after a crackdown
by Thai authorities that led
to a regional migrant crisis
with Indonesia, Malaysia,
Thailand, Myanmar and
Bangladesh refusing boats
permission to land.
In this image
made from
video, illegal
fishing vessel
Viking which
was seized by
Indonesias
Navy is sunk in
the waters off
Pangandaran,
West Java,
Indonesia on
March 14.
--Photo AP
Indonesia blows up illegal

toothfish ship sought by Interpol
PANGANDARAN, Indonesia
(AP) -- Indonesian authorities on
Monday bombed the last major
ship internationally wanted for
years of illegally taking toothfish
from southern waters, reiterating
a strong message to would-be
poachers who enter the countrys
waters.
The navy seized the Nigeriaflagged Viking on Feb. 25
operating in waters off Tanjung
Berakit in Riau Islands province
south of Singapore. It was one of
the half dozen ships dubbed the
Bandit 6 by the nonprofit Sea
Shepherd Conservation Society,
which hunted the boats and
was among those who alerted
Indonesian officials when the
Viking entered the countrys
waters.
This is to serve as a deterrent
to others, Fisheries Minister
Susi Pudjiastuti told reporters.
She posed on the beach with a

group of navy officials, their fists
raised in the air with the smoking
boat behind them. You may go
freely in the rest of the world, but
once entering Indonesia, this is
the consequence.
The Viking was operating as
a so-called ghost ship, frequently
changing its name and registry
and not broadcasting any type
of satellite signal so that its
whereabouts could be tracked,
said Siddharth Chakravarty, Sea
Shepherds campaign leader, by
satellite phone from a ship in the
Indian Ocean.
I wish there were more
governments standing up for
what they can do within their
legal instruments and not
worry about how international
diplomacy is going to play out
after that, he said, adding that
the Viking had been fishing
for 13 years in Antarctica and

spotted 18 times, but it always
escaped.
The Viking was the last
in operation of the Bandit 6
known to be illegally catching
toothfish in the Southern Ocean.
Patagonian toothfish, also
known as Chilean sea bass, is
popularly served in the United
States, and fishing stocks are
now better managed after years
of plundering. However, USbased Monterey Bay Aquarium
Seafood Watch recommends
avoiding eating the fish unless it
comes from certain areas.
The Vikings Chilean captain
and crew members have been
detained in Indonesia. Interpol
went after the ship in 2013
following a complaint from
Norwegian authorities about
illegal fishing in that countrys
waters.
MELBOURNE (Xinhua) -Australian police are sifting

through camera footage taken by
a passenger in an ultralight plane
that crashed in country Victoria
at the weekend, killing the two
men on board.
It is believed the pair local man Ian Cook, 60, and
Vietnamese man Quoc Huong
Vu, 44 - were filming for the
Vietnamese version of globalhit reality television show, The
Amazing Race, before the crash
on Sunday.
The two men were killed
on impact, despite efforts from
emergency workers to revive
them.
On Tuesday, a police
spokesperson said Vu, a
cameraman, may have captured
vision of the accident from
multiple on-board cameras
which they will now use to assist
in their investigation.
Initial reports by the
Recreational Aviation Australia
have indicated that irregular

wind patterns may have lead to
the planes downing.
Before the crash, several
pilots had noted long and
sustained whirlwinds while inflight, throwing them off course.
Australian Transport Safety
Bureau statistics show the pairs
type of microlight plane, known
as an arrow, have been involved
in more fatal accidents in
Australia than any other aircraft.
Yarrawonga Aerodrome
manager Peter McLean, a pilot
who taught Cook how to fly, said
the design of the aircraft meant
pilots had to continually operate
at high-speed to avoid crashing.
McLean, who was one of
the first people on the scene, told
Fairfax Media that Cook was
more than adequately trained to
use the trike-style aircraft.
I knew the pilot, he comes
up every couple of weeks,
McLean said in comments
published on Tuesday.
Vientiane Times
Wednesday March 16, 2016 Region
World Bank prioritises six

areas for Myanmar
Myanmar (Eleven) -- The
World Bank Group (WBG)
in Myanmar has outlined six
priority areas to ensure that
economic prosperity is shared
by all.
They are access to
social services, reducing
rural poverty, private-sector
competitiveness,financial
inclusion, access to energy,
and public-sector governance.
We are committed to
supporting the people of
Myanmar through the new
administration, World Bank
country manager Abdoulaye
Seck said at a press conference
recently.
Myanmar has the potential
to follow a similar path of
inclusive growth as other
Asian countries that enjoyed
long periods of rapid income
growth. The country faces a
long road ahead in addressing
continued challenges to close
disparities across Myanmars
geography, ethnic communities
and income groups. We will
continue supporting Myanmar
people to overcome these
challenges.
Seck said the six areas
were interconnected, and the
government needed to be
transparent and engage with
citizens in sending out accurate
information in a timely and
transparent manner.
He said sustaining a strong
pace of growth through a
diversified economy was
critical to achieve this, with
policies that could enable

a structural shift to more
p r o d u c t i v e a n d l a b o u rintensive activities.
He added that the WBG
would also emphasise such
things as natural-resources
management.
Axel van Trotsenburg,
World Bank vice president for
East Asia and Pacific, last week
met with National League for
Democracy chairwoman Aung
San Suu Kyi.
It is one of a few meetings
we had over the past few
weeks. The meeting ended
very positively, and we are
very much encouraged to
see how we can cooperate
to ensure inclusive growth
in Myanmar. We will be
engaging more with the new
administration. There will be
many more discussions, he
said.
The World Bank last
year completed its first full
country strategy, the Country
Partnership Framework, for
Myanmar. The three-year
framework outlines support
for Myanmar and its people
in transforming the country,
reducing extreme poverty and
boosting shared prosperity.
The Bank is convinced
that Myanmars economy has
huge growth potential, with an
anticipated economic-growth
rate of 8 percent per annum
over the next five years. With
the right policy choices, a
growing economy can provide
more jobs and higher incomes

for Myanmar people.
According to Habib Rab,
World Bank senior country
economist, the bank is looking
at ways to increase Myanmars
fiscal efficiency, by helping
prioritise government projects
as well as boosting government
revenue through improvements
in tax administration.
Public debt is also on
the agenda, to ensure that
government borrowing will
not create unnecessary costs
and risks to its sustainable
growth.
As foreign investment
remains crucial for future
development, Charles
S c h n e i d e r, Wo r l d B a n k
senior operations officer, said
Myanmar had a lot to do. In
the latest Doing Business
report, Myanmar ranked 167
out of 189 economies around
the world.
Schneider said there had
been only a few small changes
for Myanmar since its debut
on the list three years ago. In
the last three years, Myanmar
ranked 187, 182 and 167
respectively.
Schneider said commercial
arbitration, regulatory reforms
such as financial-structure
reforms - part of which
was formation of the credit
bureau, which is under way
- and efforts to enact the new
company law were the areas
Myanmar need to emphasise
in the short term.
Police standing guard over the record 1,200kg ganja haul. - Bernama
Malaysian cops seize 1,200kg of

ganja, biggest-ever single haul
KUALA LUMPUR (The Star)
-- Police have scored a major
success with the seizure of
more than a tonne of ganja
worth RM4.2mil, making it the
biggest single haul of the drug
in Malaysian history.
Federal Narcotics Criminal
Investigation Department
director Comm Datuk Seri
Mohd Mokhtar Mohd Shariff
said the drugs were seized in
two separate raids between 3pm
Saturday and 1.30pm Sunday.
In the first bust, police
arrested a 38-year-old man
near a parking lot after police
found 160 of compressed
blocks, believed to be ganja,
in his car.
That led police to a house
where we seized another 200

blocks, he said at a press
conference on Tuesday.
The second bust was made
in another house in Bandar
Laguna Merbok, Sungai
Petani, at about 1.40am.
A total of 848 compressed
blocks weighing about
843kg were seized there.
Investigations revealed that
the house was used for storage.
In total, we seized
1,200kg of ganja and that is
the biggest ganja haul in our
history, he said.
Comm Mohd Mokhtar
added that the ganja was brought
in by sea from Thailand.
We a r e s e e k i n g
several people to facilitate
investigations, he said,
adding that the suspect would
be remanded until March 20.
Among other items seized
included a watch and RM2,000
in cash.
The case is being
investigated under Section
39B of the Dangerous Drugs
Act 1952 which carries the
mandatory death sentence
upon conviction.
Between Jan 1 and March
11, police have busted two
syndicates and seized 277kg
of ganja.
In 2015, seven syndicates
were crippled with 1,290kg of
ganja seized, while in 2014,
eight syndicates were busted
and 368kg of ganja seized.
Vientiane Times
World
Turkeys military: 45 PKK rebels killed in air strikes

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) -At least 45 Kurdish rebels
were killed in Turkish air
strikes against suspected
militant targets in northern
Iraq following the suicide car
bombing in Ankara, the military
said Tuesday. Meanwhile, a
police officer and three Kurdish
militants were killed in fighting
in a neighborhood in the mainly
Kurdish city of Diyarbakir,
media reports said.
Turkish F-16 and F4 jets
struck Kurdistan Workers
Party, or PKK, positions
across the border in Iraq on
Monday, a day after the attack
which killed 37 people and
wounded dozens of others.
There was no immediate claim
of responsibility for the Ankara
attack, which authorities say
was carried out by a female
bomber and a possible male
accomplice. Turkish Prime
Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said

there were almost certain
indications that the attack was
the work of the PKK.
The attack escalated
tensions with the Kurds and
further complicated Turkeys
place in the region as it battles
a host of enemies across its
borders including the Syrian
government, Kurdish rebels
in both Iraq and Syria, and the
Islamic State group. Turkey
also have been forced to absorb
2.7 million refugees from the
conflict.
The state-run Anadolu
Agency said authorities
had declared a curfew in
Diyarbakir s low-income
Baglar neighborhood early on
Tuesday after clashes erupted
overnight between Kurdish
militants and the security
forces. The Dogan news agency
said a police officer and three
militants were killed in the

clashes.
Turkey this week also
declared curfews and launched
large-scale operations against
Kurdish militants in the towns
of Nusaybin and Yuksekova in
the mostly-Kurdish southeast
region. Earlier, the military
said Mondays air strikes
which targeted the Qandil
mountains, where the PKKs
leadership is based, killed 45
PKK rebels and destroyed
two arms depots and two
rocket launcher positions.
The military claim could not
immediately be verified.
The PKK is fighting Turkey
for Kurdish autonomy in the
southeast. The fragile twoyear peace process collapsed
in July, re-igniting the conflict.
The PKK is considered a terror
organisation by Turkey and its
allies.
EU foreign ministers agree on five principles concerning Russia

BRUSSELS (Xinhua) -- The
foreign ministers from 28
member states of theEuropean
Union (EU) on Monday
unanimously agreed on five
principles guiding the EUs
policy towards Russia.
Implementation of the
Minsk agreement should be
the key condition for any
substantial change in the EUs
stance towards Russia, agreed
the ministers at the Foreign
Affairs Council.
They also agreed to
strengthen relations with the
EUs Eastern Partners and
other neighbors, in particular
in Central Asia, as well as

strengthen the resilience of the
EU in fields including energy
security, hybrid threats, or
strategic communication.
The ministers also
emphasized the need for
selective engagement with
Russia on issues of interest
to the EU, and the need to
engage in people-to-people
contacts and support Russian
civil society.
We will come back to
the sanctions decisions in due
time, either at the Foreign
Affairs Council and/or at the
European Council, said EU
foreign policy chief Federica

Mogherini at the following
press conference.
The Council also
discussed relations with
Iran and possible areas of
re-engagement following
the adoption of the Joint
Comprehensive Plan of
Action and the lifting of all
nuclear-related EU sanctions.
Mogherini briefed the
ministers on her planned trip
to Tehran next month, with
an aim to explore different
areas of cooperation with Iran
accompanied by a delegation
of EU commissioners.
Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Foreign Minister Sergei
Lavrov at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, March 14, 2016.
Putin orders withdrawal of Russian

air forces deployed in Syria
MOSCOW (China Daily/
Xinhua) -- The Russian air
forces deployed in Syria
would start withdrawal from
March 15, Russian President
Vladimir Putin said Monday.
Putin said the decision was
discussed and coordinated
with Syrian President Bashar
al-Assad during a phone
conversation earlier in the day,
adding that "the fundamental
tasks set for the Russian armed
forced in Syria were resolved."
"It was agreed to withdraw
main body of the Russian
air forces. At the same time
Russia would preserve an
air flight control centre in
Syrian territory to monitor the
ceasefire regime," according
to an online Kremlin press
release.
According to Putin,
Russia's naval base in Syria's

coastal city of Tartus, as well
as the Hmeimim airbase
southeast of Syria's Latakia
city, would continue operation
in a routine mode.
"A part of our military
group has been traditionally
deployed in Syria for many
years and now it will be tasked
to fulfill a very important job
of monitoring the ceasefire
regime and creating conditions
for peace process," Putin
added.
"I hope today's decision
(of withdrawal) will be a
good signal for all conflicting
parties. I hope it will
considerably increase trust of
all participants in the process,"
Putin said during a meeting
with Russia's Foreign Minister
Sergei Lavrov and Defense
Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Putin also ordered the
foreign ministry to intensify
efforts to push forward the
Syrian peace process, while
praising the Russian air forces
in Syria for the efficient work
that "created conditions for the
start of a peace process."
Both Putin and Assad
hoped the intra-Syrian
talks in Geneva, which
starts Monday under the
UN auspices, could bring
concrete results, while the
latter stressed his readiness
to start political process in
Syria as soon as possible.
Assad also expressed
gratitude to Russia for the
substantial help in the fight
against terrorism and the
humanitarian aid delivery to
Syrian civilians.
Vientiane Times
Business
Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la
Jo Bounmy Group boosts

funding to develop
transport service standards
Participants at the Sub-dealer conference held at the Lao Plaza Hotel pose for a group photo.
Mitsubishi Electric eyes

sales growth
Advertorial Desk
etting its sights on

the Lao market,
Mitsubishi Electric
joins forces with
Odien Refrigerator and P&P
Inter-trading to further grow
its sales and service network
targeting sales of 100 million
baht within 2016.
Being the market leader
and recognised as The
Cooling Master in Thailand
for over 44 years, Mitsubishi
Electric Kang Yong Watana
Co., Ltd. (MYK) will continue
to expand its business to the
Asean Economic Community
(AEC) setting its sights on
Vientiane, Laos, as the first
AEC market.
The company has joined
forces with Odien Refrigerator
and P&P Inter-trading
Company Limited, reputed

and competent electrical
appliances distributors in
Laos, to expand its sales and
quality services network with
projected sales of 100 million
baht within 2016.
Mr Anun Bunjerdtum,
Director and General
Manager of Marketing and
Sales Division of Mitsubishi
Electric Kang Yong Watana
Co., Ltd. (MYK) revealed
that the Sub-dealer
conference at the Lao Plaza
Hotel is considered as our
c o m p a n y s f i r s t s t e p i n
penetrating the Lao market
starting from Vientiane before
expanding to other major cities
through our partners subdealers.
We will initially focus
our sales mainly on air
conditioners, refrigerators,
electric fans, ventilators

and water pumps. We will
emphasise our brands core
strengths such as The Cooling
Master which comprises
Master of Technology, a kinetic
cooling technology coupled
with being environmentally
friendly, Master of Durability,
building up confidence in
product quality and durability,
and Master of Energy Saving,
product development with
energy saving technology.
In addition, the company
will build up brand awareness
via above the line media by
airing its TVC on the main
Thai TV channels such as
Channel 3, 7 and digital TVS
which are popular among
consumers in Laos who like
to watch Thai TV shows and
movies.
Moreover, Out of Home
Media can be viewed in
Vientiane via billboards and
LED digital billboard screens
in major commercial areas
such as the Morning Market
and major business areas, etc.
We will also strengthen
our standardised after sales
service by sending our team
of experts to conduct training
and transfer technology to subdealers in the major cities in
Laos so as to better facilitate
consumers, Mr Anun said.
This cooperation, we
believe, will gain trust and
recognition as well as serve
consumers requirements in
Laos in line with our brand
positioning of The Cooling
Master and the development
concept of We Think From
Your Life.
Impress design of
the international
transport ICD
service system
at the Thakhaek
Economic Specific
Zone in Khammuan
province.
Advertorial Desk
he Jo Bounmy
Group International
Transport Vessel ICD
Co., Ltd. has added
US$15 million in funding
to develop the international
transport ICD service system
of the companys concession
area at the Thakhaek Economic
Specific Zone in Khammuan
province.
The companys investment
of US$5 million increased
US$20 million on 14 hectares
of land with a 75 year
concession, according to an
authority responsible for the
project.
The investment will
develop the project as a
domestic transport centre to
link with Asean, the region
and international destinations.
The project has completed

the first phase after it began
operations in October last
year and is now engaged in
the construction of phase II.
The additional funds
will develop the transport
service system in Laos to
meet international standards,
and will have a modern
inspection system and
guarantees for domestic and
foreign service especially
passengers, goods, parking
and warehouse.
This is one of the model
projects in the zone which
is effective, standard and
modern, and will benefit the
investors and the government,
the zone authorities reported.
On behalf of the
government, which is
managing the zone, we
always advise companies
to operate their business

in the right way under Lao
investment regulations and
laws.
After the company
operated the project for
over a year, the government,
especially provincial
authorities, confirmed that
the company had followed
the regulations and the
authorities believe the
project will greatly benefit
society and the government.
The project is currently
complete in line with the
companys target and the
second phase is underway. The
company will ensure that the
project is completed to plan.
The government approved
a total of 114 hectares to the
company for other investments
and development of industrial
products.
Exchange rates as of March 15, 2016
Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao Public

Foreign Currencies
Buying
Selling
US Dollar 50-100
8,106
8,146
Thai Baht
231.77
233.5
Euro 50-500
8,990
9,035
10 Business
Vientiane Times
Gold futures Rs.198 due to

weak global trend
Representational Image of gold.
New Delhi (The Statesman,

ANN) -- Amid a weakening
global trend, gold futures
traded lower by Rs 198 at
Rs 28,989 per 10 grammes
on Tuesday as speculators
trimmed their positions.
Gold for delivery in April
dropped Rs 198, or 0.68
percent, to Rs 28,989 per
10 grammes, in a business
turnover of 1,145 lots at the
Multi Commodity Exchange.
In a similar fashion, the
metal for delivery in farmonth June was trading down
Rs 181, or 0.61 percent, to
Rs 29,278 per 10 grammes in
167 lots.
Market analysts said the
fall in gold futures was mostly
in tune with a weak trend
overseas where the precious
metal dropped for a third day
to trade at almost two-week
lows as the dollar rebounded
and investors await policy
reviews in Japan and the US.
Meanwhile, gold prices fell
0.8 percent to US$1,225.77 an
ounce in Singapore, the lowest
since March 2.
Oil continues slide in Asia, Brent

dips below US$40
Singapore (The Statesman,
ANN) Oil extended its
decline in Asia on Tuesday
as hopes that major crude
producers will freeze output
to ease a world surplus faded,
sending Brent crude back
below US$40.
A meeting proposed by
Russia and Saudi Arabia to
discuss output limits has been
pushed back to April from
March 20, after signs some
key producing nations do not
support the move.
Iran has said it would not
join the effort until its own
crude production reached presanction levels of 4.0 million
barrels per day, about double
its current output.
At about 0900 IST, US
b e n c h m a r k We s t Te x a s
Intermediate (WTI) for
delivery in April was down 23

cents to US$36.95 and Brent
for May was down 29 cents to
US$39.24 a barrel.
WTI slumped 3.4 percent
and Brent eased 2.1 percent
on Monday, giving up gains
that saw the global benchmark
break US$40 a barrel for the
first time this year last week.
I remain sceptical on
any such supply talks as the
probability of any definitive
action is unlikely to be high,
said Bernard Aw, market
strategist at IG Markets
Singapore.
Even if the talks happen,
the meetings agenda is
freezing production - a stop
gap measure - rather than the
more long- term goal of cutting
output to reduce the global
crude oversupply, Aw noted.
What I fear is that any

breakdowns in the proposed
talks, if there even is a meeting,
will drag oil prices through the
mud again, he said.
The talks were supposed to
be held in Russia this month,
but are now set to happen next
month in Doha, Qatar.
Singapore trade minister S
Iswaran told a gas conference
on Tuesday that crude prices
are likely to remain US$3050 per barrel this year due to
oversupply, a slowing Chinese
economy and Japan restarting
nuclear power plants.
Traders are also watching
for US economic data and
meeting of Federal Reserve
policy makers starting on
Tuesday for clues on whether
they will announce another
interest rate hike.
In brief
Sony to buy Michael Jacksons stake in Sony/ATV
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Sony Corp. said on Tuesday it has agreed to buy Michael Jacksons
stake to wholly own the worlds biggest music publisher that the electronics and
entertainment giant set up with the late pop star.
Sony will purchase a 50 percent share in Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC from his estate
for US$750 million.The New York-based joint venture was formed in 1995, managing
the song catalogues of internationally renowned artists like The Beatles.Sony expects to
conclude the deal by the end of the month when the Japanese firm will close its books for
fiscal 2015.
Technical innovations brisk at silk mills
Pyongyang (Korean Central News Agency) -- Silk mills in the DPRK strive to
normalise production with homegrown facilities and locally available raw materials.
The Sericulture and Silk Industrial Bureau has set the normalisation of production as a
primary task to be carried out in the on-going 70-day campaign and encourages silk mills to
push ahead with technical innovation.
As a result, homemade reels are introduced in production and manufacturing processes
have been steadily upgraded at different silk mills, including Kim Jong Suk Pyongyang
Silk Mill, Pakchon Silk Mill and Nyongbyon Silk Mill.Meanwhile, it has been pushed
forward at those mills to begin home-production of imported accessories.
Incheon Airport named best duty-free shopping site
S.KOREA (The Korea Herald, ANN) -- Incheon International Airport was named the
worlds best duty-free shopping site for the sixth consecutive year by an American travel
magazine, the airport said on Tuesday.
The American edition of the travel magazine Business Traveler chose Incheon airport as
the Airport With Best Duty-Free Shopping in December, as part of its annual Best in
Business Travel Awards. The airport has won the same title from the Asia-Pacific edition
and Chinese edition of the magazine for five and three consecutive years, respectively.
Rouhani says Iran, Vietnam determined to boost trade ties
TEHRAN (Xinhua) -- Irans President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that Tehran and
Hanoi have decided to increase their trade volume to a considerable level.
Despite potentials for expansion of economic ties between the two, Iran and Vietnam had
been unable to make the most of the existing capacities due to the sanctions against Iran
over the past years, Rouhani said in joint press conference with his visiting Vietnamese
counterpart, Truong Tan Sang.
Mr Khamphay Somsana (centre), Mr Kongmala Phommalay (left) and Mr Sombat Siriphonwitaya at the
press conference in Vientiane.
Inaugural Vientiane
Furniture Fair announced
Times Reporters
he Lao Furniture
Association (LFA)
will host the first
annual Vientiane
Furniture Fair from March
23 to April 1 at the Vientiane
Centre in Vientiane.
The products to be brought
for display and sale at the
event will include a range of
wooden furniture, bamboo,
rattan and handicrafts.
The aim is to increase the
capacity of Lao wood product
manufacturers to compete in
both local and international
markets, particularly in the
Asean Economic Community.
Vice President of the LFA
Mr Kongmala Phommalay
spoke at a press conference
in Vientiane yesterday to
announce the first annual
Vientiane Furniture Fair.
Mr Kongmala said the fair
seeks to increase efficiency,
quality and value adding
to Lao wood and furniture
products as well as sustain
forest protection efforts by
using modern technology and
innovation and promote the
use of wood from plantations
instead of utilising timber from
natural forests.
I t w i l l al s o s er v e to
promote Lao wooden furniture

to Lao society and also
international visitors, increase
the skills of Lao labour and
furniture factories and create
jobs for local people, reduce
unemployment and help the
country graduate from poverty.
Mr Kongmala said event
participants will be able to
witness carving demonstrations
and enjoy performances in the
evenings.
The association expects that
furniture, wood processing and
saplings business units within
the association and foreign and
domestic companies will join
the event.
In previous years, the
association has organised
various other exhibitions
and participated at different
domestic and international
events including some
in China, Singapore and
Malaysia, said Mr Kongmala.
Vi e n t i a n e C e n t r e s
Shopping Mall Department
M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r, M r
Sombat Siriphonwitaya,
believes the event will attract
more domestic and foreign
investors to visit and help to
promote the goods on offer at
the newly opened shopping
mall.
L FA P r e s i d e n t M r
Khamphay Somsana said that

to integrate with the region and
internationally, the association
has advised every Lao business
unit, especially furniture and
wood entrepreneurs, to pay
more attention to updating the
quality of their products and
increasing their management
skills.
Each business unit should
also show their abilities and
actively go about producing
their own products for sale
and export and seek to increase
their popularity, he stressed.
Lao wooden furniture
products are already attracting
many foreign buyers,
especially in China, because
of the high quality of the wood,
Mr Khamphay said.
He called on furniture
makers and all association
members to grow their
businesses by using new
ideas and building on their
experience, doing their bit to
contribute to socio-economic
development and business
expansion.
The opening ceremony
will be attended by high
ranking government
officials, private business
operators, ambassadors and
representatives of various
international organisations.
Consumer complaints rise 11 percent

in China, hitting five-year high
CHINA (China Daily, ANN) -The State Administration
for Industry and Commerce,
Chinas market watchdog, has
reported an 11.1 percent rise in
consumer complaints last year,
with the most received for
automobile parts and servicing
and mobile phones.
The total number of
complaints filed with the SAIC
hit 12.9 million, a five-year
high.
Most individual grievances
focused on quality, contracts
and post-sales services, with
high rises too in the quality of
contracts and on allegations
of misleading advertisements.
The most-complainedabout categories were
daily necessities (160,600),
telecommunicationsnetworks
(124,900), home appliances
(97,800), transportation
(93,500) and food (66,500).
Those combined took up

74.9 percent of total volumes.
Within the all-important
services sector, the top
five most-complainedabout areas weredistance
shopping, residential services,
telecommunication, online
services and repairs.
Complaints about
automobiles and parts, and
mobile phones grew 37.3
percent and 9.7percent,
respectively.
Wi t h i n t h e f o r m e r,
consumers complained about
30.76 of every 10,000 vehicles
sold, the figures showed,
nearly double the number
compared with five years ago,
the SAIC said.
There were 122,800 mobile
phone complaints, within a
total 500 million devices sold
lastyear.
The SAIC said it dealt
directly with 1.21 million

complaints in 2015, a 12.2
percent rise on theprevious
y e a r, w h i c h i n v o l v e d
transactions worth 3.79 billion
yuan (US$584 million).
Online shopping led to
145,800 individual consumer
complaints, up 87.3 percent,
with thequality of items
and the truth of advertising
triggering the most consumer
anger.
The rapid development
of domestic and outbound
tourism which last year was
worth 4trillion yuan also led
to a 43.5 percent surge in
complaints, although the total
number wasstill relatively
small at 2,524.
Most of those involved
the opacity of contracts,
difficulty in getting refunded,
false advertising,pushy sales
techniques.
Vientiane Times
Lao stock market report

Trade Summary
The LSX traded flat on Tuesday, at 1,148.63 points, with slightly improved trading volumes
of 11,000 shares, translating to a turnover of 54.9 million kip. EDL-Gen contributed 28.4
million kip to the market value today, closing at 5,800 kip, while 26.17 million kip in trading
value came from BCEL trades. The banking stock finished at the unchanged price of 4,350
kip. The rest of the stocks saw very low volumes at unchanged prices.
Daily Turnover by Investor Types (LAKm)
Last 7 days Trading Information
BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited Email: Broker@bcel-kt.com
Business 11
Asean Economic Community
Asean Business Awards Laos

open for applications
Times Reporters
The Lao National Chamber

of Commerce and Industry
(LNCCI) yesterday announced
that local businesses can now
apply for the Asean Business
Awards Laos (ABAL) 2016.
Applications can be
downloaded from www.
abis2016.com with the deadline
for submissions being April 30.
The ABAL award is under
the framework known as the
Asean Business Investment
Summit and Asean Business
Awards, a series of annual events
organised by the Asean Business
Advisory Council.
Vice President of the LNCCI,
Mr Oudet Souvannavong, said
this was the first ever ABAL
and it would be organised on a
yearly basis.
Mr Oudet stressed the awards
served not only to recognise
outstanding Lao enterprises but
also to strengthen the over-all
competitiveness of Laos in the
Asean Economic Community.
The awards are open to all
LNCCI members, with enterprises
both big and small encouraged to
send in applications. The awards
presentation ceremony is slated
for the end of June.
KPMG has been appointed
the official auditing company to
ensure transparency, fairness and
professionalism in the selection
process.
There are various classes of
awards including a Lao Priority
Integration Sector Excellence
Mr Oudet Souvannavong (centre) announces that ABAL 2016

applications are now open.
Award, along with one winner

each from the eight industry
sectors of ICT, textiles, logistics,
wood-based businesses,
infrastructure, tourism, energy,
and agriculture.
Applicants must have
demonstrated the capacity to
pursue sector integration in Laos
as evidenced in its economic
contribution to the development
of Laos.
Small-Medium Enterprise
awards will be presented to
two winners for each category
of growth, innovation,
employment, and corporate
social responsibility.
Special awards will be
presented to one winner in
three categories including a
Young Entrepreneur award.
Applicants must demonstrate
outstanding potential and
results in businesses and social
entrepreneurship.
Women Leader awards
offer female applicants the
chance to demonstrate their skill
and performance excellence as
leaders.
The Friend of Laos award is
for foreign business applicants
operating in the country that have
contributed to socio-economic
development.
The 40 Years Excellence
Awards will be presented to 10
winners who have demonstrated
a proven track record of business
since the country became the Lao
PDR in 1975.
The winners of this years
awards will go on to the regional
Asean level where they will
compete against some of the most
reputable firms in Southeast Asia.
The regional competition
is tentatively set for September
during the Asean Business
Investment Summit 2016 and
28th Asean Summit, which will
be held in Vientiane.
A team of judges
representing academia, the
economic ministries, and the
business community has been
appointed to select the winners
in each category, with the process
meticulously vetted by KPMG.
Lao Peoples Democratic Republic

Peace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity
Lao Peoples Democratic Republic

Peace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity
Ministry of Health - PR/MOH supported by Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis and Malaria
Ministry of Health - PR/MOH supported by Global Fund to Fight AIDS/Tuberculosis and Malaria
Invitation for Bid (IFB)

For the Procurement of:
50 Desktop computers with printers for National Tuberculosis Center
(under TB-NFM-Y2-2016)
Invitation for Bid (IFB)

For the Procurement of:
Office Furniture for DPIC-PMU for Health Strengthening System (HSS) grant
For the New funding Model in the National Tuberculosis (NTC) Ministry of Health supported by the Global
Fund Principal Recipient Office, Ministry of Health Lao PDR (PR/MOH) of the Global Fund Project to Fight
AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) in Lao PDR.
Purchaser NTC supported by PR/MOH
Address: Simuang Road, Ban Simeuang, Sisattanak District Vientiane, Lao PDR.
Contact Persons for this RFQ:
Name/position: Ms. Phetphachan Nonginthilath, Mr. Khampasong Simmalavong, Tel (Office): 021 242 980
Email: phetphachan@theglobalfundlao.org; khampasong@theglobalfundlao.org;
CC to: verhoeven.pascal@gmail.com
Procurement No: TB-NFM-Y2/2016

Date: 16th March 2016
The New funding Model in the National Tuberculosis (NTC) Ministry of Health with the Global Fund Principal
Recipient Office, Ministry of Health Lao PDR (PR/MOH), the Purchaser, intend to utilize of Global Fund
(GFATM) funding under New Funding Model Grant (TB-NFM-Y2/2016) to Lao PDR for supply of:
50 Desktop computers with printers
The Purchaser TB/PR/MOH, now invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for the supply of these goods as per
the quantities in the Schedule of Requirement to its consignee: National Tuberculosis Center (NTC) located
in Vientiane Capital to support program implementation of TB- NFM grant activities.
The Purchaser will follow the procedures set out in the PR Procurement Manual (2015) for public bidding
method in compliance with the Rules for Public Procurement in Lao PDR issued by the MOF in 2004 and
lastly amended in 2014.
Interested bidders may obtain a complete set of the bidding document in English from date of publication of
this Invitation from 16 March 2016 to 31 March 2016 during working days/office hours. Requests can be
sending by email, phone or done in person at Purchaser office.
For the HSS Project Management Unit in the Department of Planning and International Cooperation (DPIC)
Ministry of Health supported by the Global Fund Principal Recipient Office, Ministry of Health Lao PDR (PR/
MOH) of the Global Fund Project to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) in Lao PDR.
Purchaser DPIC PMU supported by PR/MOH
Address: Simuang Road, Ban Simeuang, Sisattanak District Vientiane, Lao PDR.
Contact Persons for this RFQ:
Name/position: Ms. Phetphachan Nonginthilath, Mr. Khampasong Simmalavong,
Tel (Office): 021 242 980; Mob: 020 78004435
Email: phetphachan@theglobalfundlao.org; khampasong@theglobalfundlao.org;
CC to: verhoeven.pascal@gmail.com
Procurement No: LAO-PMU-HSS-Y1/Office Furniture/March-2016

2016
Date: 16th March
The HSS PMU in the Department of Planning and International Cooperation (DPIC) Ministry of Health with
the Global Fund Principal Recipient Office, Ministry of Health Lao PDR (PR/MOH), the Purchaser, intend to
utilize of Global Fund (GFATM) funding under Health System Strengthening Grant (HSS-Y1/2016) to Lao
PDR for supply of:
Office Furniture for DPIC-PMU (under HSS grant)
The Purchaser DPIC/PR/MOH, now invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for the supply of these goods as
per the quantities in the Schedule of Requirement to its consignee: Department of Planning and International
Cooperation (DPIC) located in Vientiane capital to support program implementation of HSS grant activities.
The Purchaser will follow the procedures set out in the PR Procurement Manual (2015) for public bidding
method in compliance with the Rules for Public Procurement in Lao PDR issued by the MOF in 2004 and
lastly amended in 2014.
Interested bidders may obtain a complete set of the bidding document in English from date of publication of this
Invitation from 16 March 2016 to 31 March 2016 during working days/office hours. Requests can be sending
by email, phone or done in person at Purchaser office.
Bids must be delivered (1 Original and 1 Copy) to the Purchaser office at address provided above before Date:
31 March 2016, 14.00 hours, (Lao Time). All original bids in hard copy must properly signed, quoted in the
prescribed currency and valid for the period specified in the Instructions to Bidder (ITB); originals and copies
must be sealed and labeled as per the Instructions to Bidder (ITB) in the Bid document.
Bids must be delivered (1 Original and 1 Copy) to the Purchaser office at address provided above before Date:
31 March 2016, 10.00 hours, (Lao Time). All original bids in hard copy must properly signed, quoted in the
prescribed currency and valid for the period specified in the Instructions to Bidder (ITB); originals and copies
must be sealed and labeled as per the Instructions to Bidder (ITB) in the Bid document.
Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened in a formal meeting chaired by MOH Procurement Committee
to verify responsiveness and announce bid received and total sum quoted (per lot as applicable) in the presence
of the bidders (or representatives) who choose to attend. Bid Opening is scheduled to start at Date: 31 March
2016, 14.15 hours, (Lao Time) at the Office of Purchaser mentioned above.
Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened in a formal meeting chaired by MOH Procurement Committee to
verify responsiveness and announce bid received and total sum quoted (per lot as applicable) in the presence of
the bidders (or representatives) who choose to attend. Bid Opening is scheduled to start at Date: 31 March 2016,
10.15 hours, (Lao Time) at the Office of Purchaser mentioned above.
Dr. Bounlay Phommasack

Director General Department of Communicable Disease Control
Director PR Office of the GFATM Project, MOH
Dr. Bounlay Phommasack

Director General Department of Communicable Disease Control
Director PR Office of the GFATM Project, MOH
12
Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times
13
14
Vientiane Times
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
No 026/2016
Phonesack Group Co.,Ltd is one of the largest wholly owned Lao companies. The Company employs over 100
personnel at its headquarters and over 2500 employees and sub-contractors throughout sites in Lao PDR.
Now is an exciting time to build a career with (New Hydro Power Project) in Pakkading, Bolikhamxay; which is under
Phonesack Group Co., Ltd. (PSG). We have a huge range of projects which require driven and talented people to
join our team, to lead and collaborates innovative ideas. We are currently seeking the following positions:
1. Position: Agriculture Officer (2) Positions in project site at Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power Project) Roster
about 60days on / 9days off which including one travel day
Duty Description:

Take overall responsibility to train and provide sound practical demonstrations in applied appropriate agriculture
techniques;
Develop and implement training and capacity building activities focused on increasing household income and
microenterprise productivity;
Be able to assist resettlement and compensation team in data gathering and also do data analysis on the asset
of affected people;
To be experienced on compensation and resettlement are needed;
To initiate how to develop livelihood of local people in order to improve and restore affected people lives to be better
and sustainable condition;
To develop individual commitment to targeted communities; Liaison with GOLs local authorities regarding to
cooperation and coordination for projectrelated resettlement and village households assigned by Head of
Department (HOD);
Other tasks as assigned by Line Management.
Qualification Required:
Graduate in agriculture/animal husbandry/fishery/horticulture from a recognized institute/university;
At least 3-5 years of work experience in above mentioned areas required and working directly with farmers;
Demonstrated capacity to work in villages and with local government staff members;
Strong capacity to work with a team, with demonstrated initiative and leadership;
Fluency in Lao language, with capacity to speak and written English desired;
Proficiency in working with MS office;
Have experience on GIS applicable is advantageous;
Be able to travel to field survey whenever required and be assigned to the site when project operated;
Able to communicate with a wide range of people from different ethnic and social culture;
Ability to work and willing to assist disadvantage groups and independently and as part of the team;
Be able to work and meet tight deadline and also under pressure;
Female applicants are also encouraged to apply;
Physically fit for work at the site in certain project duration;
1. Position: Environmental Officer (2) Positions in project site of Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power Project)
Roster about 60days on / 9days off which including one travel day
Duty Description:
To monitor and report solid waste, waste water treatment, water quality, air and noise pollution, experienced in solid
waste management will be advantage.
To organize and being good aspect in terms of awareness on solid waste management and other waste from
activities of the project.
To work and associate with local authorities such as: village, district and provincial level are needed in order to assist
social and community development team for data gathering.
To ensure environment activities will be safe and worked smoothly.
To prepare report on solid waste management to environmental manager
Bachelor Degree in Environmental Engineering/Science.
At least 3-5 years of work experience in an environment sector , mining industry
Must be proficient in speaking, writing and understanding both Lao and English.
Proficient in MS Office Suite, to include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Programs.
Have experience on GIS applicable is advantageous;
Physically fit to work at the site.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Be able to work and meet tight deadline and also under pressure.
2. Position: Resettlement and Compensation Officer (3) Positions in project site of Bolikhamxay (New Hydro
Power Project) Roster about 60days on / 9days off which including one travel day
Duty Description:
Coordinate and liaison with GOLs local authorities regarding to cooperation for and support to projectrelated
resettlement and village households assigned by Head of Department (HOD);
Collect specific data from projectrelated villagers in line with social and environmental impact as required by Line
Manager;
Can provide a primary data analysis report to a Line Manager;
Initiate to implement a projectrelated resettlement and compensation plan as approved in accordance with the
project policy and its regulation concerned to those above projectrelated villagers;
Can encourage those above projectrelated villagers and local authorities to have a clear comprehensive over the
project importance and its resettlement necessity;
Can basically negotiate with them in accordance with company guideline and direction as well as certain related
laws, degrees and regulations of Lao PDR through consulting with Line Manager, Company Management and
GOLs counterparts;
Can station and collaborate with provincial, district, village and community authorities as required due to projectrelated resettlement and compensation;
Other tasks as assigned by Line Manager.
Bachelor Degree in Social studies / Social and Community Development studies or subject- related trade disciplines;
At least 3-5 years of work skill and experience in projectrelated resettlement and compensation, especially in
hydropower or mining project.
Good academic spoken, written and understood in both Lao and English, any local ethnic languages are plus for
job selection;
Good skills in MS Office program, to include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as report writing;
Be able to work at project sites;
Inter- personal skill to communicate and handle with wide ranges of local authorities and villagers from different
ethnic groups and their practical culture behaviors.
Can be flexible and challenge to project difficult circumstance and work pressure.
3. Position: Senior Admin Officer (1) Positions in Project site of Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power Project)
Roster about 60days on / 9days off which including one travel day
Duty Description:
To assist on general office as administrative officer.
To work and cooperate with government when needed.
To prepare budget for meeting and reconcile.
To conclude and summarize time sheet of S&E Dept
To provide letters and documents and also prepare the meeting
To translate sometimes from Lao to English and also English to Lao
To work at site, support meetings or workshops organized at the district or provincial levels
To communicate with Pakkding and HQ office for administrative tasks.
And other tasks assign by line Management.
Bachelor Degree administration/Environment.
At least 3-5 years of work experience in administrative task.
Must be spoken, written and understood both Lao and English.
Proficient in MS Office Suite, to include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Programs.
Be able to work at site.
Able to communicate with a wide range of people from different ethnic and social culture.
4. Position: Senior Environmental Officer (1) Positions in project site of Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power
Project) Roster about 60days on / 9days off including travel day
Duty Description:
To supervise, monitor and report solid waste, waste water treatment, water quality, air and noise pollution.
To sound understand and apply well guideline of MONRE based on ESMMP report.
To organize and being good aspect in terms of awareness on solid waste management and other waste from
activities of the project.
To work and associate with local authorities such as: village, district and provincial level are needed and also
subcontract of Safety, health and Environment (SHE) at dam site activities.
To ensure environment activities will be safe and worked smoothly.
To prepare report on monitoring of environmental management to environmental manager
Bachelor Degree in Environmental, Chemical, Biological Engineering/ Science or subject- related trade disciplines.
At least 5-7 years of experience in an environment sector , mining industry
Proficient in MS Office Suite, to include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Programs
5. Position: Senior GIS Officer (1) Positions in Pakkading, Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power Project) Roster
about 60days on / 9days off including travel day
Duty Description:
Be able to initiate and prepare and supervise data base, mapping of a projectrelated resettlement and compensation
issues.
Can station and collaborate with provincial, district, village and community authorities as required due to projectrelated information of resettlement and compensation;
Be able to provide mapping and attribute data analysis, report to a Line Manager;
Responsible for the compiling and organizing GIS data from maps, databases and other sources;
Responsible for the collection of data in the field using Global Positioning System (G.P.S.) units;
Responsible for the collection and conversion of mapping resources and data;
Responsible for the daily input and editing of the asset data for compensation;
Bachelor or Master Degree in GIS,IT, Computer Engineering, Urban Planning or subject- related trade disciplines;
At least 5-7 years skill and experience in projectrelated data base of resettlement and compensation, especially
in hydropower or mining project.
job selection;
Good skills in MS Office program, to include MapInfo, ArcGIS, Access, SQL,Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well
as report writing;
Can be flexible and challenge to project difficult circumstance and work pressure
6. Position: Senior livelihood restoration officer (1) Positions in Pakkading, Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power
Project) Roster about 60days on / 9days off including travel day
Duty Description:
Liaison with GOLs local authorities regarding to cooperation and coordination for projectrelated resettlement and
village households assigned by Head of Department (HOD);
Manager;
Can provide a primary data analysis report to a Line Manager;
Initiate to implement a projectrelated resettlement and compensation plan as approved in accordance with the
project policy and its regulation concerned to those above projectrelated villagers;
Can encourage those above projectrelated villagers and local authorities to have a clear comprehensive over the
project importance and its resettlement necessity;
Can basically negotiate with them in accordance with company guideline and direction as well as certain related
laws, degrees and regulations of Lao PDR through consulting with Line Manager, Company Management and
GOLs counterparts;
Can station and collaborate with provincial, district, village and community authorities as required due to projectrelated resettlement and compensation;
Bachelor Degree in Social studies / Social and Community Development studies or subject- related trade disciplines;
At least 5-7 years skill and experience in projectrelated resettlement and compensation, especially in hydropower
or mining project, also having knowledge on Education, Health care, microfinance and agriculture are advantage
job selection;
Good skills in MS Office program, to include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as report writing;
Can be flexible and challenge to project difficult circumstance and work pressure.
7. Position: Senior Micro finance officer (1) Positions in Pakkading, Bolikhamxay (New Hydro Power Project)
Roster about 60days on / 9days off including travel day
Duty Description:
To assist data gathering and also do data analysis on the assets of affected people.
Management;
To know and understand compensation policy and strategy for affected people.
To be experienced on budgeting and loading for local people are needed.
To liaise with local people, authorities and planning to promote sustainably their occupation and lives.
To initiate how to develop micro finance for local people in order to improve and restore affected people lives to be
better and sustainable condition.
To evaluate and assess the income of local people will be targeted of project
Bachelor Degree in Social studies / Social and Community Development studies or subject- related trade disciplines.
At least 5-7 years of experience in social and community development sector, hydropower or mining project.
Must be spoken, written and understood both Lao and English.
Proficient in MS Office Suite, include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Programs.
Able to communicate with a wide range of people from different ethnic and social culture.
Ability to work and willing to assist disadvantaged groups.
8. Position: Senior Watershed Management Officer (1) Positions in project site of Bolikhamxay (New Hydro
Power Project) Roster about 60days on / 9days off which including one travel day
Duty Description:
To understand well and implement on Biomass Clearance Plan, Biodiversity Offset Plan, Cumulative Impact
Assessment reports and also Annex C.
To plan, supervise and monitor in order to protect the watershed boundary of NT1 with local and central government.
To work and associate with local authorities such as: village, district and provincial, central level are needed in order
to assist social and community development team for data gathering.
To ensure all environment activities will be safe and worked smoothly.
To prepare report on Biomass Clearance Plan, Biodiversity Offset Plan, Cumulative Impact Assessment reports to
environmental manager
Other tasks as assigned by Line Manager.
Bachelor or Master degree(s) in natural resources management, watershed/river basin management, rural
development, water resource management or related disciplines;
At least 5-7 years experience in watershed management, biomass clearance, biodiversity off set and GIS application
would be an advantage;
In-depth knowledge of advantageous Governance issues in biodiversity, natural resources management and
conservation in Lao PDR.
Strong presentation, organizational and communication skills,
Strong negotiations and financial management skills.
Experience with high level report writing technical, planning and management
Proficient in MS Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Programs.
We offer the successful candidate an excellent salary and benefits package, Including PSG self insurance National Social
Security Fund Office, Field travel Allowance, Mobile Phone Policies, etc
We invite qualified candidate to submit your resume stating your present and expected salary and ref directly to the Human
Resources Department at: Phonesack Group, Ltd. Unit 15, Sithong Road, Pakthang Village, Sikhottabong District, P.O. Box
1808, Vientiane Lao PDR. Fax: (856-21) 550498 Tel: 021 550497 or E-mail to: careers@phonesackgroup.com.
Closing date 18 March 2016
Vientiane Times
Crazy, talented and Asian

Manote Tripathi
THAILAND (The Nation,

ANN) -- The Than With its
huge publishing industry and
a potential Asian-American
readership well in excess of
10 million people, the US
sounds like an ideal place for
an Asian novelist to live off
his laurels. But its also a path
strewn with difficulties and
even best-selling authors find
it near impossible to enjoy
financial freedom without a
second career.
That said, the ride has
so far been smooth for
Singaporean-born novelist
Kevin Kwan whose two
novels - Crazy Rich Asians
and China Rich Girlfriend
- have become international
best-sellers and are now
slated for screen adaptations.
I consider myself lucky
as so many of my friends
who are choreographers and
content creators have a hard
time. Theres so much content
on the Internet these days that
competition is fierce. Content
creators are not being valued
the way they used to be, he
says.
In Thailand recently to
give a talk at the Bangkok
Edge Festival, Kwan took
time out to give interviews
to the local press, conceding
that international speaking
engagements and chats with
the press are just two of the
ways his novels have changed
his life.
Born and raised in
Singapore, where he attended
Anglo-Chinese School
in the mornings and spent
his afternoons chasing after
neighbourhood dogs on his
bike, Kwan was 11 when the
family moved to the US.
My father had always
wanted to live in the West. He
loved the lifestyle there, and he
had no choice but to emigrate,
he says.
Dad was an engineer and
mum a pianist. Neither were
bookworms. My dad didnt
read for pleasure. He read
books for reference.
Instead Kwan credits his
aunt, a librarian in Singapore,
for instilling a love of reading
in him and giving him books
to read from age seven. I can
recall the first book I read,
cover to cover by myself.
It was The Wishing-Chair
by Enid Blyton. It was like
the early Harry Potter books,
with a fantasy world, magic,
fairies and special people.
Looking back, I think my
mother thought I was reading
too much and would have
preferred to see me outside
playing football, he says with
a fond smile.
In the US, Kwan attended
Clear Lake High School
in Houston, Texas, home
to Space Centre Houston,
NASA Mission Control and
International Space Station
Mission Control. His school
pals were the children of
astronauts.
I had this wonderful
English teacher. She was the
first to give me creative writing
assignments. The first thing
I wrote for her was an essay
about Marilyn Monroe. She

liked it so much that she tried
to get it published. Thats when
I realised I had a talent for
writing.
Kwan believes he benefitted
from the US education which,
unlike Singapore where the
emphasis is on mathematics and
science, encourages students to
follow their interests.
Life was interesting
because for the first time, I
was learning for the love of
learning. The philosophy in
the US is that education should
be fun, which is very different
from Singapore. In Singapore,
teachers will say these are the
things you have to learn, things
Chinese) girlfriend, Rachel, to

the dismay of the whole clan.
I grew up in a privileged
professional family. The
characters in my book are the
people with whom I came into
contact. So I thought I would
write about what I knew best.
And people are fascinated by
the very rich and powerful,
he says.
But I dont belong to that
world. Im just a visitor to that
world occasionally. I was lucky
in the sense that no one was
writing about contemporary
Asian wealth in fiction form,
Kwan says.
The book looks set to change
the usual stereotypical image
Life was interesting

because for the first
time, I was learning
for the love of
learning.
to memorise, and these are
the tests you have to pass. In
the US, if you enjoy writing,
you take writing classes, he
explains.
Kwan went to the University
of Houston where he opted for
a degree in creative writing.
His confidence grew and he
quickly became a regular
contributor to the universitys
paper.
Personally I was much
more interested in poetry. So
I wrote a lot of experimental
poetry. For me, poetry is like
a jewel. You have to keep
chipping away [at it] to find the
perfection. My poetry teacher
said a poem is never finished,
only abandoned. And he was
right.
Kwan later moved to
New York where he pursued
a Bachelor of Fine Arts
degree at Parsons School of
Design. His early years in the
city were spent working for
Martha Stewart Living, Andy
Warhols Interview magazine,
and M&Co, the design firm
founded by Tibor Kalman. In
2000, he set up his own creative
studio, where he specialised in
producing high profile visual
projects for clients such as the
New York Times, the Museum
of Modern Art and Rockwell
Group.
In his free time, he wrote
poetry and attempted to
complete the manuscript of
his first novel, a hobby, he
says of the tome.
I wasnt really doing it for
money because I was making
a good living as a consultant,
he says.
His debut novel, Crazy
Rich Asians, published in
2013, tells the story of three
super-rich, pedigreed Chinese
families and scheming that
occurs when Nick, the heir
to one of the most massive
fortunes in Asia, brings home
his ABC (American-born
of Asians in the West, who are

often seen as penny-pinching
immigrants. The protagonist
Nick is an Oxbridge-educated
New York University history
professor with a family home
in Singapore that looks like
a palace. Rachel, 29, is a
professor of economics at
NYU and was educated at
two of the top U universities:
Stanford and Northwestern.
The other characters include
cigar-puffing Asian tycoons
who get around in private jets,
male Hong Kong fashionistas,
Chuppies (Chinese yuppies)
and Henwees (high-net worth
individuals).
Of course there are
Asian stereotypes in the US.
There they tend to only see
immigrants who came in poor
but built business empires.
They dont see the world of old
money and the sophistication
that exists in Asia as depicted
in the book.
Asian wealth has had a
profound effect on the luxury
economy, so much so that the
international high-end brands
are now catering primarily to
the Asian market.
While Kwan admits to
being comfortable, he is
quick to explain that he is
nothing like the super-rich in
his books. Writing is still a
financially precarious career,
he says, adding that he knows
quite a few best-selling authors
who need to supplement their
incomes by holding down
university teaching jobs.
Thats the sad truth of
creative life in the US. Thats
the case in Asia too. They cant
make a living as a writer, he
said.
Being an Asian writer in
the US is a struggle, too, in the
sense that he has to contend
with losing a big share of the
market by writing a book about
something thats exotic. Its a
struggle for any writers of
colour to get their work

noticed, whether you are Asian,
African-American or native
American. Youre not going to
sell as many books as Danielle
Steel. If I wrote about crazy
rich blondes, those privileged
Park Avenue princesses, I
think I would capture a larger
audience, he says.
But there are advantages
to being a best-selling writer
and Kwan admits that his
books have changed his life
profoundly. A film adaptation
of Crazy Rich Asians is
being made by Ivanhoe
Pictures, and the author is
executive producer.
I also do a lot more
travelling that I used to
and am much more in the
public eye. Theres a general
perception that I must have
made millions of dollars.
Thats far from the truth
given the economics of the
publishing world, he says
with a grin.
On the shelf
Crazy Rich Asian has
been translated into Thai
by Sasi Pin under the title
Liam Botan and is published
by Gallery Publishing. Its
available at Asia Books,
Hardcover, Candide, B2S,
Kinokuniya, Nai-in and other
leading bookshops and costs
Bt495. The English versions of
Kwans novels can be found at
Asia Books and other leading
bookstores.
15
Profile
Singaporean-born novelist Kevin Kwan pens two best-selling novels

Crazy Rich Asians and China Rich Girlfriend.
16
Vientiane Times
Travel
Central Market: Kuala Lumpurs souvenir heaven

Souksamai Boulom
entral Market in
K u a l a L u m p u r,
Malaysia, is a
paradise for lovers
of colourful, traditional
handicrafts and anyone
wanting to return home with a
suitcase full of wonderful gifts.
The market opens at 10am
and is air-conditioned so
shoppers can stay cool. The
morning is also the time to go
for discounts, when vendors
will give you a reasonable price
so you can save a little bit for
even more shopping.
The Central Market is a
really great place to shop in
Kuala Lumpur. The vendors
are friendly and helpful and
will give you good information
if youre on the hunt for some
nice, inexpensive gifts for your
friends and family.
There are also other activities
in the area where tourists will
surely not be bored, with outdoor
entertainment venues offering
some alternative attractions to
shopping such as a concert or a
traditional show in the evening,
right up until 10 pm.
The market originated as
a wet market in 1888, built by
Yap Ah Loy, the citys Chinese
Capitan at the time. It served
as a prominent landmark in
colonial and modern-day
Kuala Lumpur.
When it was relocated in
the 1980s, it was subsequently
declared a centre of Malaysian
arts, culture and handicrafts.
The faade is painted light
blue while a palm-filled square
gives you a breath of fresh
air before and after you pace
through the markets many
aisles.
An avenue of enticing shops in the Central Market, Kuala Lumpur.
The colourful Malaysian

Traditional Cultural and Arts
shows are presented on the
outdoor stage each night,
celebrating the traditional
festivals of each race in
Malaysia.
Tr a v e l l e r s c a n s t r o l l
through the many booths in
the new zone of the Central
Market, from the Lorong
Melayu, Straits Chinese, and
Lorong India, located in the
west wing. This zone aims to
give visitors an insight into
the cultural differences of the
various races that call Malaysia
home.
The new building has two
floors. The first floor has artists
who can make you up a picture
of your choice on a T-shirt. You
can choose your own design,
but it will be a little more
expensive than if you buy one
of the designs on offer.
Of course, if you like a
dressing up there is a wide

variety of jewellery and fashion
watches, while chocolates,
local sweets and snacks and
eclectic gifts are other options.
The second floor has a food
court, which offers an array of
cuisines at the hawker centre,
which is a good place for
lunch with many tasty dishes
to choose from.
Yo u c a n a l s o b u y
antiques here. Notable are
representations of the twoand single-storey buildings
resembling the kampongstyle houses and representing
the many ethnic groups that
live harmoniously in Kuala
Lumpur.
The market is truly a one
stop centre for the diverse
handicrafts that can be found
in this exotic country. If you
are looking for a souvenir to
take home as a memento of
your holiday, this is the place
The Commission for Construction Bidding for LaoViet joint venture

Bank, Attapeu branch is pleased to invite all capable bidders to join
the bidding on Trading space and office furnishingsas following details:
- Time for selling bidding documents: from 8:00 a.m dated 17March
2016 until 16:30 p.m, dated 24March 2016 (Working hours)
- Location for selling and receiving the documents: LaoVietBank,
Head Office.
Address: No. 44 Lanexang Avenue, Chanthabuly, Vientiane Capital,
Lao PDR.
Tel: 00856.21.251418, Fax: 00856.21.212197
- Closing time for selling the documents: 16:30 p.m date 24March
2016
- All bids will be opened at 17:00 p.m (Local time), dated 24March
2016 at LaoVietBank,Head Office , Address: No. 44 Lanexang
Avenue, Chanthabuly, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.
Thus LaoVietBank invites representatives of all bidders to submit
bidding documents and to participate the bidding opening as the
time and address mentioned above.
Faithfully yours
General Director
LaoViet joint venture Bank
where you will definitely find

something worth buying at a
reasonable price.
Its a must see for tourists
and locals in Kuala Lumpur
because it is a beautiful cool
place in the midst of the blazing
citys attractions.
Be alert for cultural shows
and the art exhibitions that are
held here from time to time.
The Central Market is not
just a souvenir market, but
has an endless array of arts
and crafts from all over Asia,
Central Market, Kuala Lumpur, is the place for gift shopping,

traditional food, and soaking up Malaysian culture.
boutique shops, art galleries,

entertainment, local food and
Batik make-and-buy stalls.
There are many affordable
hotels nearby, to make your
visit convenient.
The market is located at

the junction of Jalan Benteng
and Lebuh Pasar Besar. While
some shops dont open until
11am, most raise their shutters
at 10am.
CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer
Background
The Government of Lao PDR has received a loan from the Special Funds resources of the
Asian Development Bank toward the cost of the Health Sector Governance Program. The
Program intends to apply part of the loan to recruit three planning and monitoring officers
in order to support the project implementation. The executive agency for the Program is the
Ministry of Health through the Department of Planning and International Cooperation. The
Program is implemented in 18 provinces of Lao PDR.
Location
Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, with travel to provinces.
Duration of contract
Thirty six months
Scope of Work:
Assist the Program manager of the Health Sector Governance Program to develop, implement,
monitor, and report on Programs plans and budgets;
Tasks:
The planning and monitoring officer will work under the direction of the Program director.
The planning and monitoring officers are responsible for the following tasks:
Assist MOH departments and provincial health offices in the preparation of 2016 to 2018
annual operational plans and budgets;
Review provincial plans and budgets submitted by MOH departments and provincial
health offices and support improvement of these plans with recommendations and guidance
from the Program management;
Monitor and report on implementation of annual operational plans and budgets;
Participate in the design, collect, and processing of information and data required for the
monitoring and evaluation of the Program;
Assist the Program manager with regard to administrative and financial tasks, reporting,
communication, organization of meetings, participation in meeting, field trips etc.;
Qualifications:
The Planning and Monitoring Officer has a Bachelor or Masters degree in Medicine,
Public Health or a Master degree in business and administration, or equivalent with at least
three years experience in project planning, budgeting, administration and management.
Good computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Competency in both spoken and written English language, and the ability to work at
national, provincial and district levels.
Applicants should submit not later than 28 March 2016 a letter of interest and curriculum
vitae addressed to:
Dr. Prasongsidh BOUPHA
Director General Department of Planning and International Cooperation, MoH
Program Director, National Program Coordination Office (NPCO)
Ministry of Health, Fa Ngum Road, Sisattanack, district, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
(in front of Don Chan Palace)
Tel: 223146, 252753 Fax: 223146
Email: pcu.hsdp@gmail.com
Only short listed candidates will be notified.
Detailed TOR can be obtained upon request at the above e-mail address.
Vientiane Times
17
Opinion
Streetwise
How important is the National Assembly election?

National Assembly Election Day is on Sunday March 20, and people all over the
country are eagerly looking forward to exercising their right to vote. Vientiane Times
asked some officials for their thoughts on this weekends election.
Visith Teppalath
Mr Sinxana
Moungkouddeth, an official
with the Central Theatre
Troupe: Im very happy to
exercise my right to vote
again this year. I think the

election is very important
because we select the most
qualified candidates to
represent us in the National
Assembly, which happens
every five years. The
selected candidates will
lead our country to be more
developed and civilised.
They will also represent us
in the National Assembly
and submit our problems
to the government for
consideration. I have studied
all the Vientiane candidates
in various media channels.
They all are interesting
with qualifications and
experience. However,
we must select the best
qualified candidates.
Everyone who has a right
to vote must exercise their
duty on polling day.
Ms Phouthavone
Latanasamay, an official
with Lao National
Television: Voters should

study the background
of each candidate and

select those who are most
qualified. Every organisation
should remind their staff
to vote. When Sunday
comes every eligible citizen
should go to a polling place
early. I have listened to
some of the candidates
speeches and their visions
for development during
their campaigns. I think
all of them have enough
experience to represent
people because they
have worked hard for the
government for a long
time. All of them are good
examples of government
officials and citizens. We
must use our right to vote
to select people to represent
us.
Mr Saysamone, National
Fine Arts Institute: There
are many campaign sessions
going on in Vientiane and
all over the country. I like
attending these campaigns
because I have a chance

to see the candidates in
the flesh and get to know
their opinions. I think
its good that candidates
come to meet and present
themselves to the public as
each of them explains their
background while sharing
their work experiences.
This allows people to know
more about the role of the
candidates and their duties
in the National Assembly.
People can also see each
candidate displayed on a
big screen and voters can
make their own personal
choice. However, the most
important thing is that all
voters want the elected
candidates to do what
they promised before the
election, so that people will
Vientiane candidates present themselves to officials of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism yesterday at the National Culture
Hall.
be proud of the candidates

they selected.
Mr Nivong Sengsakoun, an
official at the Department
of Fine Arts: This is my
second time voting in an
election. I feel excited
already but its not very
easy for me to choose the
candidates because they all
have different experiences
and fields of knowledge, and
ability. Of course, everyone
eligible should take part
in the election. However,
we should carefully study
the background of each
candidate before making a
decision. These candidates
will represent the people in
the National Assembly and
we will depend on them to
ensure the country is more
developed and our problems
are solved, so all voters
should choose wisely.
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18 Opinion
Vientiane Times
Eurozone economic recovery based just on

monetary easing will be fragile
J apan ( T h e Yo m i u r i
Shimbun, ANN) -- Monetary
easing alone will not be able
to eradicate concerns about
deflation and realize a full
economic recovery in the
eurozone. Other steps will be
essential, including expanding
public investment and
undertaking structural reforms
to boost the economys growth
potential.
The European Central
Bank has decided on a
comprehensive, additional
monetary-easing policy that
exceeded market expectations.
The ECB will lower the
rate of interest paid when
private banks deposit surplus
funds at the central bank from
the current minus 0.3 percent
to minus 0.4 percent.
In addition, the ECB
will expand its quantitative
easing program, which pours
capital into the markets. This
programme, which includes
buying government bonds,
will be boosted from 60 billion
euro a month to 80 billion euro
(about 10 trillion) a month.
The eurozone is on
the brink of tumbling into
deflation. Sluggish crude oil
prices and other factors pushed
the single-currency blocs
February rate of consumer
price increases into negative
territory for the first time in
five months.
Concerns are growing
that the eurozone could see

low economic growth over
an extended period due to
a decline in production and
exports accompanying a
slowdown in China and other
emerging economies.
T h e E C B s a i m o f
attempting to underpin the
economy by launching another
wave of monetary easing to dig
up demand for capital among
companies and individuals is
appropriate.
stated, We dont expect that

it will be necessary to reduce
rates further. This comment
was made to dash market
expectations for further easing.
We think this symbolises
the extent to which the
eurozone economy has become
dependent on monetary easing.
If the ECB continues to
push interest rates deeper into
negative territory, it runs the
risk of worsening side effects
such as weakening banks
A recovery of Europes economy

that relies only on monetary
policies will be fragile. Each
European country should
be using every policy at its
disposal, such as devising
growth strategies and fiscal
stimulus packages.
In the markets, the
additional easing was
welcomed in some quarters,
which sent shares up and the
euro down against the dollar.
However, before long, share
prices dipped and the euro
strengthened again.
Risks of easy money
At a press conference,
ECB President Mario Draghi
earnings and causing real

estate prices to soar as money
freed up by the easing pours
into this sector.
Germany and other
nations that oppose
purchasing massive volumes
of government bonds may
strengthen their opposition
to the plan, leading to the
unraveling of the unity among
euro nations and heightening

the risk of sparking turmoil in
the markets.
A recovery of Europes
economy that relies only on
monetary policies will be
fragile. As was confirmed
during Februarys meeting of
finance ministers and central
bank governors of the Group
of 20 major economies, each
European country should
be using every policy at its
disposal, such as devising
growth strategies and fiscal
stimulus packages.
In southern European
nations, where unemployment
levels remain high, labour
market reforms and other
steps to improve mobility in
employment will be vital.
We hope Germany, which
has the financial wherewithal
to do so, will embark on a
programme to increase
government expenditures to
stimulate the economy and
pull growth along.
Another urgent task is
restoring the health of
the financial system by
accelerating efforts by each

bank in Europe to dispose of
nonperforming loans.
While Europe and Japan
continue their monet a r y
easing, the United States is
searching for an opportunity
to raise interest rates again.
Financial authorities in
each nation must exercise
great care to ensure sudden
currency flows seeking to
take advantage of differences
in the direction of their policies
do not throw the markets into
confusion.
What the Lao papers say
Everyone should exercise

their right to vote
Translated by Times Reporters
This Sunday the election of members of the National Assemblys Eighth Legislature will
take place so everyone aged 18 and over should turn out to vote for their chosen candidates.
Everyone has rights of various kinds and choosing the members of the National Assembly
is one of those important rights.
We are free to choose whom we like without anyone forcing us to choose this person or
that person. No one has the right to tell other people who to vote for, and if we believe
other people that means we are not freely using our right to vote.
Almost all of the candidates work for state and government organisations so they all have
the necessary knowledge and ability to represent the people in the legislative body. Those
who become members of the National Assembly do so because of popular support.
In the opinion of this reporter, those who are not elected to a seat in the Assembly will
continue in their original positions and do the same work as they did before. But those
who are elected must work harder to help the people they represent and fulfil the countrys
socio-economic development plan.
From 2016 to 2020, the government will attempt to lead Laos out of Least Developed
Country status.
Everyone should realise the importance of this election and choose the candidates we think
can to help to move the country forward and improve peoples living standards.
--Lao Phatthana Daily, March 15
Price controls necessary for

consumer protection
Price controls are important for all consumers so the sector responsible needs to get tough
about this and make sure that controls are enforced so that prices are fair for consumers.
It is difficult for government departments to regulate prices because some remote places
do not have enough goods and must import what they can from neighbouring countries.
This is also a cause of inflation.
Officials have enacted and enforced legislation in this regard, and consumers know and
understand how to prevent themselves being taken advantage of by traders.
Consumers also know and understand that they should not buy out-of-date goods or poor
quality products.
To protect consumers, not only are price controls necessary but vendors should be made
to openly display product prices in the interests of transparency.
--Lao Economic Daily, March 15
Public donations essential to

drive development
There are many disadvantaged people in remote areas so donations from everyone are
necessary in order to help them and to develop the country.
Recently, many northern provinces were affected by the cold weather and many offices,
organisations, companies, shops and individuals bought clothes and medicine to offer as
donations.
This was an important contribution to improve the living conditions of rural people.
This reporter went to Phonsa-at village in Xaysettha district to donate educational materials,
fans, lights, footballs and other items worth more than 12 million kip.
Although the donation was not large, it will still help to improve conditions in rural areas,
especially helping rural children to study and upgrade educational standards in line with
government policy.
The work of development requires everyone to cooperate, because if we have solidarity
with each other it will help us to achieve success.
If everyone helps each other it will help Laos to wipe out poverty and rise above Least
Developed Country status by 2020 as targeted.
--Lao Phatthana Daily, March 14
Vientiane Times
19
Arts & Leisure
Thakhaek school dance

contest announced
The press conference at the Lao Journalists Association.
Visith Teppalath
President of the Lao Womens Union at the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ms Souphaluk
Thiravong, cuts a ribbon to open the exhibition.
Female artists display

their imaginations
Times Reporters
he Womens Union at
the National Institute
of Fine Arts opened an
exhibition on Friday
to display works produced
by artists with the theme
womens imaginations.
The 10th fine arts
exhibition by women and
girls saw the return of an
annual event held every
year by the institute since
it was founded 10 years ago,
which has attracted widespread
interest and provided a rare
opportunity for Vientiane art
lovers.
The gallery exhibit serves
to show the different points
of view expressed by female
artists on canvas and publicise
the talents and abilities of
women in general.
The event was organised by
the National Institute of Fine
Arts in cooperation with all

the related sectors and material
support from various domestic
and international organisations
in Laos.
President of the Lao
Womens Union at the National
Institute of Fine Arts, Ms
Vanthavy Thavongxay spoke
at the official opening of the
exhibition.
She reported that it features
some 428 art pieces including
110 paintings, 154 works of
graphic art, 24 pottery pieces,
30 wood carvings and some
100 handicrafts.
All of these artworks were
created by women and girls
and serve as a testimony to the
abilities of women.
The exhibition aims to
promote womens rights in
Laos as well as celebrate
International Womens Day
on March 8.
The featured art pieces
were created by women from

the National Institute of Fine
Arts, Vietnamese artists,
and students from Vientiane
Secondary School, VientianeHo Chi Minh Secondary
School and Chao Anouvong
Secondary School.
Ms Vanthavy explained
that the artists are opening their
imaginations to audiences in an
attempt to reflect the value and
identity of the art and culture of
Lao people, and the easy living
and beautiful traditions of their
ancestors.
Entry to the exhibition is
free and it will be open every
day until March 18 at the
National Institute of Fine Arts
in Anou village, Chanthabouly
district.
President of the Lao
Womens Union at the Ministry
of Information, Culture and
To u r i s m , M s S o u p h a l u k
Thiravong, opened the event.
A taste of Thailand
THAILAND (The Nation,

ANN) -- Every March in one
of their countrys busiest cities,
Japanese cinephiles get to feast
on a veritable banquet of films
from all over Asia.
Now in its 11th year, the
Osaka Asian Film Festival had
plenty of Thai flavour on offer
at the recently ended event with
three new local films from both
mainstream and independent
side.
Last year it was GTHs
comedy I Fine, Thank You,
Love You, which came home
with the Most Promising Talent
Award. This year the Kingdom
went one better with Nawapol
Thamrongrattanarits Heart
Attack (Freelance Ham
Puay Ham Phak Ham Rak
More) picking up the
ABC Award for the most
entertaining film. ABC - Asahi
Broadcasting Corporation is the regional broadcaster
based in Osaka and will be
buying the rights to broadcast
the prize-winning film on
its channel in Osaka, Shiga,
Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara and
Wakayama prefectures.
The main prize of the
festival went to the South

Korean film My Sister, the Pig
Lady by Jang Moon-Il while
female Mongolian filmmaker,
Uisenma Borchu, took home
the Most Promising Talent
Award for Dont Look at Me
That Way.
Nawapol couldnt be in
Osaka for the awards ceremony
having dashed back to Bangkok
to attend the Thailand National
Film Association Awards, aka
the Subhanahognsa Awards,
where Heart Attack won
eight prizes.
Its like a dream to see
my works screened in Japan
because by films are influenced
by Japanese films, and Heart
Attack is no exception,
Nawapol said by phone after
hearing the news.
I am very happy that my
film won the ABC Award for
the most entertaining film and
will be shown on Japanese
television because it means that
Japanese people enjoyed the
film and want it to be shown
in their country to a wider
audience.
A second film by
Nawapol, the documentary
The Master, about Bangkok

movie bootlegger Van VDO,
was also screened in Osaka.
The movie, which won a
Subhanahongsa Award for Best
Documentary last year and had
its international premiere at
the Busan International Film
Festival last October, was
shown in the special section
New Action! Southeast Asia.
The Japanese audience was
shocked by the revelation that
art-house films have little to
no circulation in Thai cinemas,
and the fact the Apichatpong
Weerasethakuls debut feature
Mysterious Object at Noon
and his latest Cemetery of
Splendour have never been
shown.
Another Thai title in
the line-up was 5 to 9, an
anthology co-produced by
Japan, Singapore, China and
Thailand. The film is directed
by Daisuke Miyazaki from
Japan, Tay Bee Pin from
Singapore, Vincent Du from
China, and Rasiguet Sookkarn
from Thailand, who just won
a Subhanahongsa Award for
art direction on Kongdej
Jaturanrasmees Snap.
A school dance contest to

promote art and culture will be
held at the Thakhaek Stadium,
Khammuan province from
2pm on March 25.
Thakhek Danse 2016 will
encourage more young people
to express their special talents
through art and dancing and
is being organised by the
provincial Department of
Education and Sports and
Fanglao Dance Company with
sponsorship support from
many partnership companies.
A press conference
announcing the dance
contest was held at the Lao
Journalists Association in
Vientiane last Thursday and
attended by Vice President
of the Lao Journalists

Association Mr Somsanouk
Mixay and Director of Fanglao
Dance Company Mr Ounla
Phaoudom.
About eight dance teams
from four selected schools
in Thakhaek district will
take part in the competition
featuring both traditional and
international dance along with
BBoy dance battles.
The winning teams in
each category will receive
trophies and prize money
from Khammuan province
Department of Education and
Sports.
According to the organising
committee, the event will
also feature art and cultural
performances by various
schools in Thakhaek district
with several well known dance

teams from Vientiane and
Khammuan province also
attending.
Mr Ounla told Vientiane
Times he was thrilled to be
entrusted by the department
with the organising of the
event again and appreciative
of sponsors assistance.
Im very happy my
company is organising this
event again and were confident
its going to be a great show.
I would like to thank the
department, sponsors and
public for all their support,
he said.
Mr Somsanouk also
congratulated Fanglao Dance
Company for cooperating with
the department to organise the
event.
Vientiane Fashion Week collections

wow audiences
Sisouphan Amphonephong
Vientiane Wow Fashion Week

2016 ended on Sunday with a
huge round of applause from
both Lao and Thai designers who
exhibited their collections on the
catwalk.
The show at the ITECC Mall
got under way after a speech by
the Chief Executive of Wow
Magazine Society and Vientiane
Wow Fashion organiser Mr
Suwat Tessalee in which he
lauded the much anticipated twoday fashion event.
He noted that this was the
third year that Wow Fashion
Week had been staged and this
year the name had been changed
to Vientiane Wow Fashion Week.
The show featured collections
from eight Lao and Thai
designers in a programme that
featured 20 fashion displays.
This year s event was
well supported by the Lao
government, with officials keen
to promote development in the
field of fashion and strengthen
links between Lao and Thai
designers.
Mr Suwat said he never
thought the fashion event would
prove to be so popular with Lao
and Thai designers as well as
celebrities, who also expressed
an interest in taking part and
sharing their experiences of the
fashion world.
The opening of Vientiane
Wow Fashion Week also
attracted a great deal of media
attention, both from Laos and
Thailand.
The two-day event also
featured Japanese designers.
The show kicked off with a
display of items from Phouvong
Jewelry, followed by fashions
from Aek with designer Phoxay,
The Dittawat Moulage collection from Thailand.
Manosy Syphoxay, the Khang

brand with designer Viengkham
Nanthavongdouansy, Vina
Chanphana, the Mee.O brand
with designer Phoutthasone
Sisoutham, items from Samlan
Jewelry, and the Men Folder
collection.
Officials at the event were
surprised to see the UEFA
Champions League Trophy
and posed for pictures with the
magnificent cup during its tour
through Vientiane.
After the interval, the second
half of the programme began with
songs from Alee Shawty. This
was followed by collections from
the Noomarie brand designed
by Chananya Taweepong/
Pathoumlat Saysanith, the
Poum Poum Lao Silk brand
designed by Vilayphone
Bouphavan, the Chic and
Trendy brand designed by
Dalouni Philavan, and TYBA
Inspiration of Silk designed by
Somphone Phonepaseuth.
To cap off the first night of
the show, models and designers
gathered for a Heineken party to
socialise and discuss the days
events.
The first show of the second
day began with a display of
mobile phones from Huawei,
followed by fashion collections
from Paul Dirrek, Nuttawat
designer accessories by Nipon,
YaccoMaricard Japanese designs,
Dittawat Moulage, DVIS by
Epson, Iconic, Apostofydress,
Maibe, and last but not least
Wow, who brought the second
day to a close.
Officials, models and
designers again gathered for a
Heineken party to celebrate their
success and the interest generated
by the show.
Men Folder brand manager
Mr Bandith Lathsavong said he
was happy and excited that his
brand had been featured for the
first time after gaining popularity
among Lao celebrities.
The Khang collection
designed by Viengkham
Nanthavongdouangsy gathered
spring and summer fashions
under the concept Fly with Me
and inspired participants to keep
an eye on the exciting designs
created by the Lao fashion house.
20
Classified
Vientiane Times
HOTEL LAO
SERVICED APARTMENTS
APARTMENT FOR RENT
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In the heart of Vientiane
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Spacious & tastefully decorated

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MP: 020 55505840, 020 55023782
Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com
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Fully furnished 1 bedroom, Living
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Land for Sale in Vientiane

Dongponhae Village
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RentsBuy Co., Ltd is a leading professional real estate

company offering;house, land, apartment, office,
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property valuation throughout Lao PDR.
Dongpainar Rd., Ban Phontan, Saysetta
District,Sisattanak, Vientiane
Office mobile: 021 262319/20, 020 23333347,
77600059
www.RentsBuy.com email: rentsbuy@gmail.com
Location: Xaysettha District

Nearby: Community area
Bedrooms: 1, Bathrooms: 1,
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Special Features: fully furnished
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Mobile: +856 2022216222
Call: 020 55505840, 020 77495533

Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com
Close to 450 Road

10 Mins. from Friendship
Bridge
Price Kip 160,000 / m2
Contact 020 59683340
Vientiane Times
Classified 21
Vientiane Times
on CD-ROM
Issues of Vientiane Times from
1994 to March 2016 have been
recorded on CD-ROM. Now
available at Vientiane Times
office. Phonpapao Village, Unit 32,
Sisattanak district,Vientiane.
P.O. Box: 5723,
Tel: (856-21) 336042, 336048,
216364.
Fax: (856-21) 336041.
Email: editor@vientianetimes.la
VPS
LAO PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE
Car rental service

We have many types of cars for rent new

model and old, sedan & 4 wheel such as:
MG.TOYOTA. NISSAN. KIA. HYUNDAI,
SMALL AND MIDDLE SEDAN FOR CITY
AGL assurances Allianz Group

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Provide vehicle for Project & Private
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Office B. Thonkang, R. sokpalaung 15/279
For English call Mr. Chanh anytime
Tel: 020 55599900. 55593013,
office: 030 9800630
Email: vpscarrental@yahoo.com
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REQUEST FOR EXPRESS OF INTEREST
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We find you a suitable accommodation in Vientiane.

Price range from Kip 4 000 000 and up.
Apartments & houses reasonable price available now.
Over 15 years experience guarantee.
Call for free advice and pick up at your convenience.
Tel: 020 55 51 25 02 and 020 588 94 567.
Email: oudalee_rangsy@yahoo.com
mewvp@yahoo.com
National Project Coordinator

forEIF Tier-2 Project: Strengthening National Quality Infrastructure and Industrial Statistics
in the Lao PDR
Background
Government of Lao PDR has approved the new Project Strengthening National Quality Infrastructure
and Industrial Statistics in the Lao PDR, as part of the EIF Tier-2 Program. Primary objectives of the
project are: 1) to strengthen the national quality infrastructure (component A); and 2) to support the
enhancement of industrial statistics (component B), thus contribute to increasing quality, safety and
reliability of Lao products and services, and improving overall competitiveness of Lao businesses.
House For Sale or Rent
The National Implementation Unit (NIU) within the Foreign Aid Division of the Ministry of Industry
and Commerce (MoIC) is the secretariat for the PEC, the grant recipient entity, and the core technical
and fiduciary implementing unit for the Tier-2 project. The Project are requiring following positions will
be based in Department of Standardization and Metrology (DSM), Ministry of Science and Technology
(MoST) the Implementing Agency (IA) for the component A. Below are the detailed scope of work and
qualification and experience requirements:
2 Storey house full furnished, 200 sqm with a 60 sqm

living room, kitchen
4 bedrooms with their own bathroom, A/C in the all house,
2 cars parking with remote door, Swimming pool
For rent only 13,600,000 Kip / Month
For sale only 2,320,000,000 Kip.
Contact Lao, English and French 020 2222 1970 or
020 2308 8780
Main Responsibilities:
Provide technical assistance on project coordination under the component A of the EIF Tier-2 project.
Assists the DSM to assume operational management of the project in accordance with the project
document and both UNOPS/NIU policies and procedures
In cooperation with the DSM and with technical inputs from the NIU, prepares, monitors, reviews
and updates project work plans and budgets (annual and quarterly)
Jointly with the DSM prepares background notes and synthesis reports, based on the conclusions
and recommendations of international and national consultants
Together with the DSM prepares various project status reports for coordination meetings, for periodic
reviews, for annual reviews and for the term evaluations
Assists the DSM to organize the review/evaluation missions
Administers the mobilization of project inputs under the responsibility of the national counterpart
agency/agencies
With respect to international/national consultants or institutions under contract to the project, assists
to ensure that these consultants/institutions deliver the inputs in accordance with their contract/terms
of reference
Under the supervision of the DSM, manage the project budget related to local inputs and expenses.
Additionally, ensure that: (1) Accounting records and supporting documents are well kept and (2)
Financial operations are transparent and UNOPS and NIU financial procedures are applied
Reports regularly to keeps the DSM up-to-date on project progress and flags problems
Other assigned duties as required by the DSM or NIU
Very good location, Ban Chomphet, Close

to Talat Souanemone
Qualification and experience requirements:

Minimum Bachelor Degrees in Economics, Business Administration or related field
Minimum 03 years of working experience with Lao national development projects funded by
international donors
At least 2 years of experience in a similar assignment
Strong understanding of the government policy with respect to trade promotion
Technical knowledge and experience related to the enhanced integrated framework process and
trade a distinct advantage
Authority and seniority that is appropriate to the project
English skills (reading, writing and speaking) a must
Project management skills with a strong focus on attention to detail
The indicative estimated inputs for this assignment are 9 person-months on a full time basis, with the
possibility for extension for additional 1 years, based on performance and the availability of project
funding.
. The expected commencement of services is expected as soon as possible.The full text of the ToR can
be accessed at the NIUs website:http://www.laosaft.org/index.php/en/procurement.
The NIU now invites interested eligible consultants to provide information indicating that you are
qualified to perform the services (curriculum vitae with expressions of interest and references). Interested
consultants may obtain further information at the address below. Expressions of interest must be
delivered to the address below on or before March21, 2016, 16:00 oclock (submissions via email
are also acceptable).
Ministry of Industry and Commerce
National Implementation Unit
P.O.BOX 4107, Phonexay Road, Vientiane Lao PDR
Tel: +856 21 413 916;
E-mail: amphaphone.t@laosaft.org;www.laosaft.org
22
Vientiane Times
Whats On
Superstar
Concert
Lao and Thai celebrities
will appear in the Super
Star Exclusive Concert
featuring Thai Artist Weir,
Aom and Oil and Lao
singer Tot Vilouna and the
band Black Eyes.
Where: ITECC Mall, 7th
floor.
When: March 19, concert
to start at 6pm.
More information contact:
020 78888888 or
030 9430373
Furniture Fair
The Lao Furniture Association will organise the Vientiane
Furniture Fair to promote local products.
When: March 23 to April 1
Where: Vientiane Centre.
For more information please contact 020 55511939
Thakhaek Dance Contest

Thakhaek Dance Competition 2016
will feature a B-Boy battle and school
dance contest.
When: March 25, 3-7pm, free entry
Where: Thakhaek stadium,
Khammuan province. For more
information call 020 5226 3111
Fundraising exhibition
for disabled women
Products made
by the Lao
Disabled Womens
Development
Centre on display
as well as designer
fashions. The final
day will feature a
fashion show.
Where: Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel, 2nd floor, Vientiane
Lobby
When: March 8-31
For more information contact: 02022422252
University Job Fair
Homes for the Spirits exhibition

Ma Te Sai homewares
presents a product
exhibition. Come and see
Ken Yarborough and his
wonderful collection of spirit
houses, showing for the first
time in Vientiane.
When: March 18-23, 10 am-6 pm
Where: i:cat Gallery, Simeuang village, Setthathirath Road,
Vientiane
Secondhand Goods Market

The Womens International Group is holding
a secondhand market, including homemade
goods.
When: Sunday March 20, 4-7pm
Where: In front of Vientiane Centre on
Khouvieng Road
Fee for a stall space: 80,000 kip basic stall,
200,000 kip with table and 2 chairs
Call 020 5570 6025
4th Asia Press Photo Contest

Changing Asia is the theme of the 4th Asia Press Photo Contest
organised by Asia News Network and the China Daily.
There are eight categories in the contest: Sports News, General
News, Economics, Science & Technology, Portraits, Daily Life, Arts
and Entertainment, Sports, and Nature and the Environment.
The contest is open to professional photojournalists and
freelancers. Submission date is until the end of March.
There is one gold prize award in each category and 100 honorary
prizes.
Gold Prizes (8): A cash sum of RMB 5,000 yuan (US$750) after
taxes and a certificate for each winner. The winning photos will
be featured in the 2015 Changing Asia photo book and will also
feature in exhibitions.
Honorary Prizes (100): A cash sum of RMB 500 yuan (US$75)
and a certificate. Selected photos will be featured in the 2015
Changing Asia photo book and exhibitions.
For more information please visit http://www.asianewsphoto.com/
Web_ENG/Eng.html
The Faculty of Economics and

Business Administration at the
National University of Laos is
holding its annual job fair.
When: March 25
When: Meeting Hall of the
Faculty of Economics and
Business Administration
Art exhibition
Maison de la Culture is holding
an exhibition by Mr Sompaseuth
Chounlamany from the USA and Mr
Phonepaseuth Vannalathsamy from
Luang Prabang province.
Mr Sompaseuth will display 28 paintings,
while Mr Phonepaseuth exhibited his
embroidery only on the opening day.
There will also be an auction of paintings starting on March 10
and ending on March 15 at 5pm.
When: March 10-31.
Where: Maison de la Culture, Naxay village, Xaysettha district,
Vientiane.
Lao Supermodel 2016

Calling young men and women, as well as children, to enter the
Lao Supermodel Contest.
Conditions:
- Males must be aged 18-28, at least 1.70m tall and have
completed high school
- Females must be aged 18-25, at least 1.65m tall and have
completed high school
- Children, aged 6-10.
When: Applications open until March 30.
Where: Apply at LT Company, Phonxay village, Xaysettha
district.
For more information: 020 59581881 Ms Nhui, or 020 2247 9479
Ms Ting
www.facebook.com/lao super model 2016
The Vientiane Times welcomes notices from members
of the public for announcement on this page. Any
events or functions open to the general public are
suitable for publishing.
Contact: editor@vientianetimes.la
Art Exhibition
The 10th Lao Womens Art Exhibition takes place this month.
When: March 11-18
Where: National Institute of Fine Arts, Chao Anouvong Road
For more information call: 021 212463, 021 314776
Buddha image consecration

Devotees are invited to attend a Buddha
image consecration ceremony. The Porn
Beepha ritual will start on March 15.
Where: Vat Sixomxeun,
Nongbuathongneua village,
Sikhottabong district.
When: Friday March 18 at 7pm.
For more information call 030 5848579;
020 5582 4909.
Fashion Design Contest

Seeking Best Lao Young Designer 2016 for Pi Mai Lao (Lao New
Year). Lao designers aged 18 to 25 are encouraged to enter the
competition.
Where: Entries must be submitted to Lao Fashion Week
Secretariat Office, House No. 99/01, Nam Phou Square, PO Box
8044, Vientiane.
When: March 30.
For more information call: 021 254808 (office hours), Fax: 021
254809,
E-mail: info@laofashionweek.com or Facebook:
LaoFashionWeek.
AFC Cup 2016

Lao Premier League Champions 2015 Lao Toyota FCs
upcoming AFC Cup matches:
March 16 JOHOR DARUL TAZIM from Malaysia VS Lao
Toyota FC (Away)
April 13 Lao Toyota FC VS JOHOR DARUL TAZIM from
Malaysia (Lao National Studium Km 16)
April 27 JSW BENGALURU FC from India VS Lao Toyota FC
(Away)
May 11 Lao Toyota FC VS AYEYAWADY UNITED from
Myanmar (Lao National Studium Km 16)
Book launch and exhibition

When: Opening reception on February 26. Exhibition runs until
April 10, entrance free
Where: TShop Lai Gallery, opposite Vat Inpaeng, Vientiane.
The book is available at the TShop Lai Gallery, Couleur dAsie,
i:cat Gallery, Monument Books.
Fashion Design Contest

Seeking Best Lao Young Designer 2016 for Pi Mai Lao (Lao New
Year). Lao designers aged 18 to 25 are encouraged to enter the
competition.
Where: Entries must be submitted to Lao Fashion Week
Secretariat Office, House No. 99/01, Nam Phou Square, PO Box
8044, Vientiane.
When: March 30.
For more information call: 021 254808 (office hours), Fax: 021
254809,
E-mail: info@laofashionweek.com or Facebook:
LaoFashionWeek.
Job Fair
Come along and apply for a
job.
When: March 19. From 9am
to 6pm
Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel
For more information please
contact 030 908 2386
Vientiane Times
Sports 23
Lin Dan wins his sixth All England

title, Wang denied hat-trick
Lin Dan of China poses for photos after the awarding ceremony of
the mens singles final against his compatriot Tian Houwei at the
2016 All England Open Badminton Championships in Birmingham.
--Photo Xinhua
BIRMINGHAM, England
(Xinhua) -- Chinas Lin Dan
won his sixth singles title at
the All England badminton
championships but a red card
in the deciding game cost his
compatriot Wang Shixians
third womens singles title on
Sunday.
Lin, also a five times
world champion and double
Olympic champion, took only
45 minutes to win 21-9, 21-10
in the final.
Tian, nine years younger
than his legendary teammate,
never looked in contention
with the title, giving Lin his
easiest match during the whole
tournament.
The mens singles title was
Chinas only victory in the
final. This year witnessed the
countrys worst performance
in 17 years competing at the
worlds oldest badminton
tournament. They had

previously won at least two
titles each time since 1999.
Wang, the winner in 2011
and 2014, dropped the first
game 21-11 against Japans
Nozomi Okuhara but stormed
back in the second by winning
21-16. She led the third game
all the way before Okuhara
pulled back to 17-17.
The umpire surprisingly
showed a red card to Wang
accusing her of delaying the
competition. She was then
deducted a point.
The 26-year-old did pull
it back to 19-19 but ended
up losing the following two
crucial points and the title after
one hour and 39 minutes.
Lin, nicknamed Super
Dan by his fans, added the
title to his collection of wins
in 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009
and 2012, becoming the most
successful player here in the
past 40 years.
China lost the womens
doubles title for only the third
time in 20 years as sixth seed
Tang Yuanting and Yu Yang
were beaten by third seed
Misaki Matsutomo and Ayaka
Takahashi of Japan 21-10,
21-12.
China, who clean swept
all five titles in 2009, failed
to produce any players in
the mens and mixed doubles
finals.
Representatives from the Philippines football federation confirm at the fourth meeting session of the
AFFs Council Meeting in Danang that it will complete the preparation for co-hosting the championship
with Myanmar.
--Photo VNS
Myanmar, Philippines to
co-host AFF Championship
DANANG, Vietnam (Vietnam
News, ANN) -- Myanmar and
the Philippines will co-host the
Asean Football Federations
(AFF) Championships group
competition from November
19 to December 17.
Representatives from
the Philippines football
federation confirmed at the
fourth meeting of the AFFs
Council Meeting in Danang
on Saturday that it will
complete the preparations for
co-hosting the championship
with Myanmar.
As scheduled, the official
draw of the AFF Championship
will take place at Yangoon,
Myanmar on August 2.
Meanwhile, Cambodia,
Laos, Timor Leste and Brunei
will compete in one leg roundrobin qualifiers from October
13-22 with the two top teams
going to the final round.
Six teams, including
defending champion Thailand,
runner-up Malaysia, Vietnam,
Singapore and co-hosts
Myanmar and the Philippines,
will receive wildcards for the
final round.
The final round of AFF
Championship is scheduled
to begin on November 19
to December 17, with the
participation of eight teams in
two groups.
The semi-final and finals
will be played in two legs, at

home and away turf.
At the meeting on Saturday,
the AFF also hosted a draw
for the 2016 AFF U19 Youth
Championship to be held in
Vietnam this September.
As a result, the host,
Vietnam, has drawn in group
A with Malaysia, Timor Leste,
Singapore, and the Philippines.
Group B will see Thailand,
Laos, Myanmar, Brunei, and
Australia.
During the meeting, the
football federation of Thailand
also introduced its new
chairman, Pisan Chuldilok,
and new general secretary,
Thanasak Suraprassert.
Man United and Gulf Oil International

announce global sponsorship
MANCHESTER, England
(Xinhua) -- English Premier
League side Manchester
United on Monday announced
a three-year global partnership
with Gulf Oil International.
Gulf Oil International
became Manchester Uniteds
first Official Global Lubricant
Oil and Fuel Retail Partner.
To celebrate the global
partnership, the first of its
kind for a Premier League
club, Gulf Oil Internationals
Vice President Frank Rutten
and Manchester United
Commercial Director, Jamie
Reigle, were joined by first
team players at the clubs
training ground, including
captain Wayne Rooney.
Gulf, a lubricants and fuel
retailer, will have its distinctive
orange disc featured on the
Manchester Uniteds digital
perimeter boards during
Premier League, FA Cup
and League Cup matches at
Old Trafford.
The agreement will enable
the company to engage with
Uniteds worldwide family
of fans, including its 325
million followers in Asia,
which Gulf sees as a major
area of focus, having a strong
presence in India and rapidly
developing-businesses in
China, the Middle East and
Manchester United Commercial Director Jamie Reigle addresses

a press conference on Monday announced a three-year global
partnership with Gulf Oil International.
--Photo Xinhua
Indonesia.
With a Gulf lubricants
presence in more than
110 countries and regions
worldwide, petrol stations in
22 countries and a thriving
global marine business,
this new partnership
reflects Gulfs commitment
continually to add value to
its customers.
Manchester United
Group Managing Director
Richard Arnold said: Gulf
Oil International already
has significant experience
in sport and we are looking
forward to working with them

to expand that into football.
Through this partnership we
will further our commitment
to reach our fans around the
world, especially in Asia.
Gulf s Vice President
Frank Rutten said: Gulf is
regarded as an iconic brand
in motorsport circles, but this
is a truly exciting opportunity
for Gulf to expand beyond
our motorsport sponsorships
and to stand on the global
stage - showing the ambition
and growth aspirations of the
brand.
Wednesday
March 16, 2016
24
Vientiane Times
Sports
Teams eager for Lao Premier League kick off

Sangkhomsay
Bubphanouvong
layers from 14 teams

are chomping at the
bit to compete in this
years Lao Premier
League which kicks off in
Vientiane next weekend.
Saturday March 26 at 4pm
sees the sixth and seventh
placed teams respectively

from last year meeting as
Eastern Star FC tak e o n
IDSEA Champassak United
at the National Stadium in
Vientiane.
Also at 4pm on the same
day, National University of
Laos (NUOL) FC face Army
FC at the soldiers home
ground with both teams
being newcomers to league

2016.
Sunday March 27
features last years runnersup Lanexang United taking
on fourth placed Lao Police
FC at Uniteds stadium at
4pm.
Big spending Lanexang
United will be keen to get
their campaign off to a
SHB
Champassak
FC (left) and
Eastern Star FC
players contest
for the ball
during a clash
from last years
competition at
the National
Stadium in
Vientiane.
good start after finishing

last season equal with Lao
Toyota FC on 39 points but
being demoted to second on
a head-to-head basis.
Lanexang United has
numerous foreign players
to please its large fan base
while Lao Police FC is only
relying on local football
talent.
In other games on Sunday
March 27, Young Elephant
FC will face Xaythany City
FC at the National Stadium
at 3:30 pm while reigning
champions Lao Toyota FC

meet CSC Champassak FC
at Chao Anouvong Stadium
at 5pm.
This season sees 14 clubs
competing in the Lao Premier
League: Lao Toyota FC,
Lao Electricity FC, Police
FC, Army FC, Lanexang
United, Savan United,
IDSEA Champassak United,
National University of Laos
FC, Ezra FC, Elephant FC,
Eastern Star FC, Xaythany
City, CSC Champa FC, and
VSV Savan United.
Some 30 referees have

also prepared for League
2016 by officiating during
football events at the Lao
University Games from
March 5-15.
L a s t y e a r s l e a g u e
c h a m p i o n s L a o To y o t a
FC finished on 48 points
after suffering just 2 losses.
Hoang Anh Gia Lai Attapeu
province FC won the title
in 2014 with Saigon-Hanoi
C o m m e r c i a l Stock Bank
(SHB) Champassak province
the champions in 2013.

March 2016 VT Issue 64

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March 2016 VT Issue 64

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Vientiane Times

wednesDAY march 16, 2016

The First National English Language Newspaper

IMF chief praises Laos,

Laos mourns death of

Central Market: Kuala

International Monetary Fund

This economic expansion

achievements in bringing down sustainable growth going

affairs for Lao expatriates, Mr

where it has been confirmed

Polling stations set up for Lao expatriates

Preparations are in place to

There are also at least

Wednesday March 16, 2016

Savannakhet police drug bust snares

Savannakhet provincial police

42,000 amphetamine pills

114,000 amphetamine pills

Mr Bounkhuang Souvannaphanh (right) addresses the meeting.

Laos closes in on poverty reduction target

Laos aims to further mobilise

Association lends a helping hand

Children in poor families in

Established 1994, Volume 22

Tel: (856-21) 336042, fax: (856-21) 336041

Poverty Reduction Fund

IMF chief praises... from page 1

Lao Press in Foreign Languages

eradication. The fight against

Tel: 55624351, 021

Wednesday March 16, 2016

UXO sector achieves new

Laos mourns death of Cuban Ambassador

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Sengphet Houngboungnuang, representing the Ministry

Road No. 9 upgrade taking shape

Sections of the over

Savannakhet province and

The year 2015 was a year

Mr Bounheuang Douangphachanh (right) and Ms Kaarina Immonen

thought to litter Laos rural

a national cluster munitions

Thai dredging vessels told to retreat from

Workers asphalt a section of National Road No. 9 through Savannakhet province.

The operators of Thai sand

stating they would not again

less populated areas rocks

Wednesday March 16, 2016

Xaythany district, Vientiane, has chalked up a total of 75 billion kip in

China funds construction of primary school

Technical students learn about hydropower

The Nam Theun 2 Power Company

NTPCs commitment to expand its

students at the college and seven for

A Chinese company has provided more than 2 billion kip to build a

Four people die in road accidents

A truck hit and killed a motorbike rider in Dongkhamxang village,

New ultrasound for Xieng Khuang hospital

The Mother and Child Hospital recently donated an ultrasound machine

Wednesday March 16, 2016

Wednesday March 16, 2016

In brief from Asia

IN BIN (VNS) -Preparations for upcoming